Consular assistance to Malaysians detained abroad does not grant immunity, says legal expert

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 19 — Malaysian citizens are being informed that consular assistance from embassies or High Commissions does not provide immunity from foreign laws, according to Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam Faculty of Law head Mimi Sintia Mohd Bajury. The role of consular officials is to protect the well-being of detainees, connect them with families, and assist with legal aid, she explained during a FOKUS 15 programme titled ‘Crossing Borders: The Legal Rights of Citizens from an International Perspective’ on Bernama TV.

Mimi stressed that being a foreign national does not exempt one from basic rights, and Malaysian detainees overseas have rights such as being informed of the detention reasons, access to legal counsel, fair treatment, and consular help. She reminded Malaysians that even though a Malaysian passport grants citizenship, actions abroad are governed by the host country’s laws, such as in Singapore, Indonesia, or Thailand.

Mimi advised Malaysian travelers to understand and follow the laws of the countries they visit and to refrain from carrying items for others. She emphasized that it is crucial for Malaysian tourists abroad to know local laws and available support channels to safeguard their safety and rights.