It is important to educate the public on their freedom and right to practice their own culture and religion, but at the same time be sensitive and respect the rights of others to do the same.

In view of this, the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) will organise a seminar this Saturday, called 'human rights and culture' with special focus on religion.

There will be two discussion panels at the one-day seminar, which will be held in conjunction with the national human rights day on Sept 9 at the Renaissance Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

The first panel on 'human rights and religion' will include Prof Mohamad Hashim Kamili from the International Islamic University, who will be speaking on human rights and Islam.

Meanwhile, parliamentarian Zain Ibrahim will be speaking on 'freedom of religion and the federal constitution' while Assoc Prof Dr Patricia Martinez from Universiti Malaya is to speak on 'freedom of religion in the Malaysian context'.

The second panel, which will held in the afternoon is on 'culture and freedom of expression', include speakers Prof Dr Shamsul Amri Baharuddin from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Richard Englehardt from United Nations' Asia and Pacific Regional Bureau for Education, and Kee Thuan Chye, a playwright actor and associate editor of the Star .

Suhakam commissioner Dr Chiam Heng Keng expressed hope that members of the public will participate in the seminar.

She said some 350 participants are expected at the seminar which is to be officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

Correct misconceptions

Chiam, who also heads the organising committee, said the theme 'human rights and culture' was chosen due to certain specific reasons.

"The reasons are to correct the perception of Malaysians that practising human rights is a western culture. Secondly, the spate of incidents pertaining to human rights and culture. And thirdly, to allow discussions of traditional and religious practices that are sensitive," she added.

She said the seminar will help clear the doubts and correct the misconceptions regarding the definition of human rights.

Chiam urged those who are interested in attending the seminar to register themselves as soon as possible because the deadline for registration ends tomorrow.

Those interested can obtain the registration form via the Suhakam website or call the commission's general line at 03-2612 5600.