ANNUAL REPORT 2019 OVERVIEW SUHAKAM continued to strengthen its collaborations with other NHRIs and networks, as well as its contributions to UN mechanisms. As a member of various international networks and in partnerships with international organisations, SUHAKAM was able to increase its capacity further and strengthen its recognition on the regional and global level as a serious proponent of human rights both at home and abroad. In addition, SUHAKAM continued to play a strategic role in building relationships with the media, as well as to inform and educate stakeholders on SUHAKAM and its public policy positions. The ongoing relationship between SUHAKAM and the media is vital in order to maximize positive coverage of human rights when SUHAKAM issues its comments and press statements. It generates publicity for SUHAKAM’s activities and expand the options to promote, empower and provide education on human rights through various mediums, such as videos, publications, libraries etc. A. INTERNATIONAL COORDINATION 1. Universal Periodic Review The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a mechanism of the Human Rights Council. It’s where the human rights record of all UN Member States undergo a peer review every 4.5 years. On 14 March, Malaysia’s Working Group Report for the Third UPR was considered and adopted at the 40th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council. Of the 268 recommendations received, the government fully accepted 147 recommendations, partially took 37 recommendations and noted the remaining 84 recommendations. While an encouraging step forward, SUHAKAM hopes that the government will commit to accepting more recommendations. In particular, those related to the accession of the six remaining core CHAPTER 1 1.4 COMMUNICATION AND INTERNATIONAL ENGAGEMENT 79