Many hate crimes related to race, religion and royalty have been reported in the media.
Although some of these offences can be regulated and prosecuted by criminal laws (Penal Code), there appears to be a need to implement a specific law on hate crimes.
This will facilitate the detection, apprehension and prosecution of hate crime offenders.
Furthermore, with a law on hate crimes, experts believe it will minimise and control these crimes.
More importantly, having a specific law on hate crimes would send a strong message that Malaysia is committed to combating hate and intolerance.
It would show that the government takes these crimes seriously and is dedicated to protecting the rights and safety of citizens.
There are several types of hate crimes that are recognised and categorised based on the protected characteristics of the victims.
FIRST, offences targeting individuals or groups based on their race, ethnicity, colour or national origin.
Examples include racially motivated assaults, vandalism, racial slurs or discrimination against people due to their cultural heritage;
SECOND, offences motivated by religious intolerance, directed at people or religious institutions based on their faith.
Examples include attacks on places of worship, harassment or discrimination against people due to their religious beliefs;
THIRD, sexual orientation hate crimes that involve acts of violence or discrimination against people based on their sexual orientation;
FOURTH, gender identity offences committed against people based on their gender identity or expression.
People often face discriminatory acts, such as harassment, assault or verbal abuse due to their gender identity; and,
FINALLY, violence or discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
Examples include physical or verbal abuse, harassment, or damaging property related to people's disability.
Hate crimes can intersect and overlap, with victims belonging to multiple protected characteristics simultaneously.
One of the main advantages of a law on hate crimes is that it would provide a clear definition and understanding of what constitutes a hate crime.
This would help law enforcement agencies in identifying and investigating these incidents more effectively.
Now, without a specific law, it can be difficult to classify certain acts as hate crimes and this can lead to a lack of action.
Moreover, a law on hate crimes would allow for harsher penalties to be imposed on offenders.
This would act as a deterrent and discourage people from engaging in acts of hate and discrimination.
It would also provide a sense of justice for victims and their communities, as these crimes often cause deep psychological and emotional harm.
Ultimately, a law on hate crimes would boost public awareness and education about the issue.
It would encourage dialogue and discussions about the detrimental effects of hate and discrimination, promoting a more inclusive and tolerant society.
This could lead to a reduction in hate crimes as people become more informed and empathetic to others.
Critics may argue that existing laws are sufficient to address hate crimes and that introducing a specific law would be redundant.
However, having a dedicated law would show a proactive and comprehensive approach to tackling hate crimes, giving law enforcement agencies the tools and guidelines to address these cases.
In summary, the implementation of a specific law on hate crimes is crucial to combating cases of hate and discrimination.
It would provide a clearer definition, harsher penalties, and enhance public awareness, leading to a safer and more inclusive society for Malaysians.
Malaysia Madani is colour blind and must prevent people from being victimised by hate crime perpetrators.
* The writer is a criminologist at the Centre for Policy Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia
