The Malaysian Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) has urged the federal government to seriously look into the allegation that Penan women are being sexually abused by loggers.

In a statement today, Suhakam chairperson Hasmy Agam expressed ‘deep concern’ over a recent report which detailed allegations of rape and sexual abuse by Penan women in Ulu Baram, Sarawak.

NONE "Rape and sexual abuses are serious criminal offences and issues of grave concern for Suhakam especially the safety, welfare and dignity of the women and young Penan girls ( right ).

"It is important to note that the fact-finding report by a task force formed in 2008 by the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry had revealed testimonies of the abuses," said Hasmy.

He urged the police and other relevant agencies to investigate the matter thoroughly and take appropriate measures to encourage victims to come forward by providing them protection.

Hasmy was responding to the report A Wider Context of Sexual Exploitation of Penang Women and Girls in Middle and Ulu Baram, Sarawak by the Penan Support Group (PSG) which documented the rape allegations in detail.

PM to visit area

The report caused an uproar during the last sitting of Parliament with the opposition claiming that the government had failed to protect the safety of the Penan community.

The government has refuted PSG’s report but promised to probe the matter.

Located mostly in rural areas, the Penan community have often complained of encroachment and conflicts with loggers. They are also subjected to forced resettlement which affects their traditional way of life.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak is scheduled to visit four Penan settlements in Ulu Baram and listen to their grouses.