Towards an Inclusive Framework: Human Rights and Democratization in Malaysia through Reformist and Conservative Islamic Groups Lenses

Human rights are among the global issues that are widely fought for, but in Malaysia, there are two different approaches highlighted by Reformist and Conservative Islamic groups. This study aims to analyze the differences in the concept of fundamental rights by both groups and to assess their impact on various dimensions of the democratization process in Malaysia. Through secondary data from books, journals, newspapers, and previous studies, a qualitative analysis was performed to understand the difference between the universalism approach by the Reformist group, which emphasizes equality regardless of the cultural context, and the relativism approach by the Conservative Islamic group, which adapts basic rights to the principles of Sharia and local culture. The results of the study found that both groups have a positive impact on democratization, especially in fair elections, freedom of speech, following the rule of law and combating corruption. This study also offers a new analytical framework to understand how an inclusive approach to human rights can strengthen democratic development in Malaysia. Additionally, this study provides practical guidance to policy makers on how a balanced approach between universalism and relativism can benefit the wider democratic process in Muslim-majority countries.