Malaysia plans to gradually reduce reliance on UNHCR

The Malaysian government is planning to gradually decrease its reliance on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as it improves its capacity to manage refugees and asylum seekers. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan revealed that this change is part of a review of the UNHCR office's operations, scope, and functions in the country. The review aligns with the implementation of the Refugee Registration Document (DPP), which aims to strengthen Malaysia's own refugee management mechanism.

Mohamad explained that the government is currently reviewing the direction of the UNHCR office, including its role and functions, to ensure they are in line with the DPP and government-led national mechanisms. In the long run, this approach also considers reducing dependence on UNHCR as Malaysia's capacity for managing refugees and asylum seekers increases.

Responding to a parliamentary question about the legal basis and government approvals for UNHCR's operations in Malaysia, Mohamad clarified that the DPP is being implemented under National Security Council Directive No. 23 (2023 revision) to enhance the management of refugees and asylum seekers. This mechanism includes data coordination, identity verification, monitoring, and regulation, which will decrease reliance on foreign entities' records.

Mohamad reiterated that Malaysia is not a party to the 1951 Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol. However, the government has permitted refugees and asylum seekers to remain temporarily in the country on humanitarian grounds until they are resettled in third countries or return to their countries of origin. UNHCR's mandate, according to Mohamad, is limited to providing protection and assistance to refugees, with its functions including registration, documentation, refugee status determination, and resettlement to third countries. All UNHCR cardholders remain subject to Malaysian laws.