Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) chairman Musa Hitam said today that a letter to be sent by the commission to the police allowing Suhakam to meet seven Internal Security Act detainees held last week was "only a matter of courtesy and not to seek permission".

"It is like saying assalamualaikum (to the police). This is where Asian values comes in," Musa said.

During a press conference earlier, Musa reiterated that Suhakam was not partial to any party and that it would stand firm on its comments whatever the reactions from politicians, non-governmental organisations or individuals.

"We do not take those factors into consideration. We look at the principle of it," Musa said.

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