Jangan salahkan UNHCR atas kegagalan kerajaan urus pelarian, menteri diberitahu

Malaysia's Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail was criticized by Urimai president Urimai P Ramasamy for attributing the country's refugee management struggles to the UNHCR. Ramasamy claimed that while the UNHCR's online application system may have flaws, it is not the main cause of Malaysia's refugee issues. The real problem, he argued, is the lack of a comprehensive legal framework and broader government management for handling and processing refugees, in addition to distinguishing them from other migrant categories.

During a recent speech in the Dewan Rakyat, Saifuddin stated that the UNHCR's online registration system allows foreign nationals to apply for refugee status from abroad and enter Malaysia while their applications are being processed. Ramasamy accused Saifuddin of taking the easy way out by blaming the UNHCR, when the true cause of the problem lies deeper.

He asserted that a legal framework would complement UNHCR's efforts in registering, confirming, and managing refugees, while also helping to balance power with humanitarian responsibility, and determine the appropriate and lawful solutions for refugees who cannot remain in the country. Furthermore, Malaysia still heavily relies on information from the UNHCR agency for verification and empowerment purposes.

The former Perai MP also noted that Putrajaya must acknowledge the real issues faced and question whether the government has a political will to create a lasting solution.