The public deserves to know about national policies and mega-projects because it is their basic right, and the government is wrong to deny them that right, said the Human Rights Commissiom of Malaysia (Suhakam) today.

Commissioner Prof Mohd Hamdan Adnan said this right entails full disclosure of information related to any development plans affecting the people.

"Being transparent is important because it will avoid confusion and frustration among the people as to what is happening around them," he told reporters after chairing a dialogue between residents opposing the Broga incinerator and government officials.

"After all, they have a right to air their views o­n changes affecting their well-being."