ANNUAL REPORT 2019 Consultation with the State Government of Sabah on Malaysia’s Third UPR. SUHAKAM observed notable efforts by the government since its review in November 2018, namely in the issuance of a standing invitation to UN Special Procedures, for example, Special Rapporteurs, and carrying forth its commitment to conduct half-yearly reviews. SUHAKAM commends the government for its commitment to preparing annual status reports. And SUHAKAM is pleased to note that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently leading efforts to develop the contents of the UPR monitoring matrix. However, SUHAKAM is of the view that the government can make further improvements in its approach towards the UPR process. SUHAKAM reiterates its call to the government to establish a Permanent InterMinisterial Tracking System for effective coordination as well as to educate civil servants and the public on the UPR. CHAPTER 1 SUHAKAM organised UPR Consultations with the State Governments of Sarawak and Sabah from 25 – 26 November. The purpose of the consultations was to brief state government officials on the UPR process and discuss the implementation of accepted recommendations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department were invited to discuss implementation strategies at the federal level. The consultations provided a useful platform for constructive dialogue and in bridging the gap between the federal and state governments. 81