Malaysia, Philippines discuss swift repatriation of 5,000 undocumented migrants detained in Sabah depots

In a meeting today, Malaysia's Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan discussed plans with the Philippines aimed at expediting the repatriation of more than 5,000 undocumented migrants currently held in four immigration depots in Sabah. The screening of the migrants by the Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur has identified over 1,000 individuals who are eligible for immediate deportation.

According to Hasan, the objective is to enable the Philippine government to swiftly repatriate its citizens, either through sea routes or other viable means. He conveyed this during the 9th Malaysia-Philippines Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) held at the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Hasan stated that Malaysia seeks a swift action from the Philippine government in repatriating its citizens, while simultaneously screening the remaining batches. The meeting also touched upon the issue of educational provisions for the children of the undocumented migrants residing in Sabah. Malaysia agreed to evaluate the necessity of their continued education before initiating repatriation.

It was emphasized that any educational facilities established should be managed directly by the Philippine government to ensure appropriate oversight.

The discussion on Sabah's territorial claim was not directly addressed during the meeting. Hasan urged the Philippines to respect international law and the global consensus recognizing Sabah as part of Malaysia. He clarified that Sabah's recognition by the United Nations, through a commission presented by the UN Secretary-General, affirms its status as Malaysian territory. Thus, he reiterated that there should be no dispute over the claim that Sabah does not belong to Malaysia.

Earlier, Hasan highlighted that Malaysia would send a diplomatic note to the Philippines following Senator Robin Padilla's urging for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to reconsider the nation's claim over Sabah. Hasan co-chaired the joint commission meeting with Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro.