CHAPTER 1 1.5 INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2020 HUMAN RIGHTS DAY VIRTUAL FORUM ON 10 DECEMBER: RECOVER BETTER: STAND UP FOR HUMAN RIGHTS The Human Rights Day Virtual Forum 2020 focused on the various challenges faced by different actors. The theme was “Recover Better”. Discussions examined the several challenges faced during the pandemic, weighing the protection of human rights versus measures for recovery and preserving life. Participants also explored best practices for moving ahead and rebuilding together. The forum was jointly organised by SUHAKAM, MOFA, BHEUU and the United Nations in Malaysia (United Nations Country Team). SUHAKAM Chairman Tan Sri Othman Hashim opened the forum and H.E. Stefan Priesner, United Nations Resident Coordinator for Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Darussalam, gave the opening address. MOFA Minister Dato’ Seri Hishammuddin Hussein officiated the virtual event. The speakers reemphasised the importance of global solidarity in promoting, protecting, and advocating for the economic, social and cultural rights of vulnerable communities. International solidarity is especially crucial in addressing racism, racial discrimination, and xenophobia towards creating a more sustainable planet and just society. Three videos were shared after the speeches. The first was a presentation of Malaysia’s bid for a seat at the Human Rights Council for the term 20222024. The second was a special video message by António Guterres, the UN Secretary General, who stressed the importance of promoting human rights to build a better future for all. The third was about the people. Titled “Community Voices: The COVID-19 Effect”, it was a compilation of personal testimonies of community representatives from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. The virtual forum consisted of two sessions. Dato’ Mah Weng Kwai moderated Session 1 on “COVID-19 and Human Rights”. Datuk Dr. Hartini ANNUAL REPORT 2020 63