ANNUAL REPORT 2019 OVERVIEW SUHAKAM continued to review various laws and made recommendations for reform based on international human rights standards through its Law and International Treaties Division (LITD), in line with its mandate under the SUHAKAM Act. SUHAKAM continued to be consulted and invited to serve as members of governmental committees tasked to draft, study and make recommendations on law reform, including on sexual harassment, gender equality, and the abolition of the mandatory death penalty. SUHAKAM also continued to engage with courts, government agencies and civil society to consider their views in formulating informed recommendations. SUHAKAM will continue to push for the reform agenda under the SUHAKAM Act so that it comes into force without further delay. Through the Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Division, SUHAKAM looks at how a human rights-based approach to policies can have a positive impact on the enjoyment of human rights. The Division has a specific focus on business and human rights, the rights of indigenous peoples, the rights of sexual minorities, poverty and the right to housing in the overall promotion of economic, social and cultural rights in Malaysia. 1. REVIEW OF LAWS SUHAKAM continues to carry out its mandate to monitor and promote effective implementation of international human rights standards at the national level through its review of laws. In 2019, SUHAKAM was consulted in the policy formulation, drafting and/or review to varying degrees in the following: i. Sexual Harassment Bill ii. Anti-Discrimination Against Women Bill iii. Ombudsman Malaysia Bill CHAPTER 1 1.2 LAW & POLICY ADVISORY 31