Part II National human rights institutions’ domestic activities and functions An indigenous man speaks at a public hearing for the National Inquiry into the Land Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Malaysia. Photo by the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia. 3.2. LAUNCHING THE INQUIRY To maximise public exposure and effective participation, a public inquiry should be officially launched. Detailed information about the terms of reference, aims, objectives and conduct of the inquiry should be provided to relevant stakeholders. A public launch should communicate information to indigenous peoples in a culturally appropriate and accessible format and in language that is easily understood, particularly among those individuals and communities affected by the inquiry. 3.3. RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS All relevant national laws and regulations should be compiled, as well as international and regional human rights standards and accompanying jurisprudence. This research will allow an analysis of the State’s compliance with international standards. 3.4. INDIVIDUAL COMPLAINTS All relevant complaints received through the inquiry process should be analysed for systemic factors that contribute to or perpetuate the denial of indigenous peoples’ human rights. 3.5. PUBLIC HEARINGS As far as fiscally possible, the public inquiry should go to indigenous peoples in their communities, rather than requiring indigenous peoples to attend the inquiry. In this regard, public hearings will probably need to be conducted outside of central locations. It will also be important to engage with public officials, indigenous peoples’ organizations, relevant NGOs, human rights lawyers and academics. To enhance public engagement with the inquiry, innovative methods to receive information and submissions should be explored. This may include the use of social media, email and video interviews. Chapter 10: Public inquiries | 95