KUALA LUMPUR (April 26): The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) failed in its application to be an independent observer in the May 9 general election, but it will proceed to monitor the polling.

In a statement today, Suhakam said it was notified by the Election Commission that its application to monitor the election has been denied, meaning that the commission will not be allowed inside polling stations on May 9.

"They did not provide a reason for denying the application," a Suhakam spokesperson told theedgemarkets.com.

Dumbfounded by the decision, the human rights watchdog, however, said it will proceed with acting as an observer in the name of public interest.

“Suhakam cannot comprehend this decision especially as we were informed that there will be international observers during the election.

“Suhakam considers itself a vehicle of integrity and draws its strength from its legislated mandate to protect and promote human rights in Malaysia, and will in the public interest proceed with its monitoring plan,” it added.

On April 10, the Election Commission said it had appointed 14 non-government agencies and three national universities as local observers for the election.

It has also invited election commissions from 14 countries — compared with three in GE13 — with seven having confirmed their attendance including Cambodia, Thailand and Maldives.