Selangor waits for Putrajaya to register Myanmar refugees before deciding next steps

SHAH ALAM, Aug 17 — Selangor's Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari announced the state's wait for the Home Ministry's registration of Myanmar refugees and stateless individuals under the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) before deciding on further steps to manage the community. Amirudin stated that the state government was in the process of gathering data at the district level to submit to the Home Ministry, enabling follow-up actions with relevant agencies and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

"They need to be registered first," he explained, noting that this matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Home Ministry. The data collection is being handled by the District Security Committees, with Hulu Langat already completing its submission. The remaining districts will follow suit before the data is handed over to the Home Minister and UNHCR.

Amirudin addressed the issue of Myanmar refugees and other undocumented communities engaging in business activities in Selangor, emphasizing that the state government does not have the authority to issue licenses or permits for such activities, as it is under the control of the Federal Government, particularly the Home Ministry.

He mentioned that humanitarian considerations should also be taken into account, especially if there are plans for repatriation. "We hope to send them back when possible, but repatriation requires the consent of their government," Amirudin explained, adding that humanitarian factors must also be considered. If all were to be sent away, they might end up on the streets, creating additional social problems. Therefore, striking a balance in dealing with the issue is crucial.

Furthermore, Amirudin mentioned that the state government is still awaiting the Federal Government's decision on releasing the report on the gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights, which occurred in April 2025. The state government is prepared to release the report if granted permission, as the matter involves several Federal Government agencies and government-linked companies.

Amirudin indicated that the state government might release the report by the end of the year or in the last quarter of the year, and if no decision is made, he will discuss with the legal adviser whether public release is possible, provided it falls within the state's jurisdiction.