Social activist Lee Lam Thye has quit from the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) effective Oct 31.

He submitted his resignation letter dated Oct 15 to the Yang di Pertuan Agong as stipulated under Section 11 of the Human Rights Commission Act 1999.

"I received the acceptance letter from the Agong on Oct 23," he said when contacted late yesterday.

This is the human rights watchdog's first resignation since its inception in 1999.

Lee said he decided to let go of the position because he was unable to devote enough time to his duties as a commissioner.

"I have too many commitments. I'm holding the advisory position in several non-governmental bodies and government agencies," he said.

"I feel that I'm unable to give enough time and attention to Suhakam work. I want to do justice for Suhakam because it needs people who can devote more time and energy."

Apart from being the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health chairperson and the vice-chairperson of the Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation, Lee also sits as the non-executive director of several listed companies.

The right thing

Asked why the sudden decision, Lee said being a commissioner was holding a public office.

"I had to be accountable because I was holding a public office. Furthermore, it was the right thing to do," he said.

He added that he really enjoyed his work with Suhakam in the first two years with Musa Hitam, who was the first chairperson.

"Well, I'm still very much interested in human rights issues and I will continue to do what I have been doing to improve and enhance human rights in the country."

As a Suhakam commissioner, Lee sat on the education working group, the visitation sub-working group and the information and public relation committee.

Suhakam secretary Kamaruddin Mohamed Baria confirmed Lee's resignation, which leaves the organisation with 14 commissioners including the chairperson and vice-chairperson.