CHAPTER 4 - REPORT OF THE ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS WORKING GROUP (vii) Discrimination and racism There were those who felt that, while the Government projects Malaysia as a tolerant multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society, there is internal discrimination of ethnic minorities and indigenous cultures. For instance, the current policy suppresses attempts to set up Chinese- and Tamilmedium schools. The incidents involving two principals in national schools who made racist remarks to students are another indication of the level of disrespect and intolerance. (viii) Women’s rights The Commission was advised to address issues concerning women’s rights holistically instead of dealing with them on a piecemeal basis. It was suggested that the Commission refers to, and takes cognizance of, the comments made on it in relation to women’s rights in the ERA Consumer Report 2007. (ix) Assessment of human rights issues Besides urging the Government to ratify the ICESCR, the Commission could assess specific economic, social and cultural rights issues based on each provision of the ICESCR. (x) 80 Engagement with NGOs and CBOs It was suggested that the Commission maintains regular engagement with NGOs and CBOs to discuss human rights issues. It was also suggested that the Commission should coordinate meetings between the Government and civil society groups to enable direct discussion of human rights issues.