Why does Nazri Aziz oppose Malaysia signing ICERD?

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Nazri Aziz Opposes ICERD Due to Concerns Over Pro-Bumiputra Policies

Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz has stated his complete opposition to Malaysia signing the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD). His primary concern is that ratifying the convention would necessitate the abolition of existing pro-Bumiputra affirmative action policies, which he believes are deeply embedded within the Malaysian Constitution and have historical roots. This stance diverges from the government's stated intention to accede to international human rights treaties, including ICERD, as affirmed at the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva.
Concerns Over Constitutional Implications

Nazri Aziz argues that ICERD's core principle of eliminating discrimination would directly conflict with policies that provide for communal-based discrimination. He asserts that signing the convention would legally obligate Malaysia to dismantle these systems, a move he deems impossible given their constitutional entrenchment. This perspective highlights a perceived incompatibility between the convention's aims and Malaysia's existing legal framework for affirmative action.
Historical and Special Privileges Argument

Beyond the constitutional aspect, Nazri Aziz also cited a "historical aspect" as a reason for his opposition, although specific details of this historical context were not elaborated upon. This sentiment is echoed by other Malay-Muslim groups who fear that ratifying ICERD would ultimately strip the Bumiputra class of their constitutionally protected special privileges and quotas. These concerns persist despite assurances from legal experts, including the Malaysian Bar, that ICERD would not alter the provisions of Article 153 of the Federal Constitution.
Contrasting Government Stance

The opposition from Nazri Aziz and other groups contrasts sharply with the Malaysian government's affirmation at the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in Geneva. During this review of Malaysia's human rights record, Putrajaya indicated its intention to accede to international human rights treaties, specifically mentioning ICERD. This indicates a policy direction from the federal government that appears to diverge from the reservations expressed by figures like Nazri Aziz regarding the implications of ICERD ratification.
Assurances on Article 153

Despite the apprehensions, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, P. Waythamoorthy, has publicly assured that Malaysia would not abolish Article 153 of the Federal Constitution even if ICERD were to be ratified. This assurance aims to allay fears that the convention's ratification would lead to the removal of special privileges for Bumiputras. However, these assurances have not fully mitigated the opposition voiced by Nazri Aziz and other concerned parties.

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Why does Nazri Aziz oppose Malaysia signing ICERD?

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