Govt compiling refugee data through registration programme

The Malaysian government is currently gathering data on refugee communities throughout the country via the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced that the initial phase concentrates on refugees detained in immigration facilities. Zahid mentioned that the programme is anticipated to commence its second phase shortly, encompassing UNHCR card holders outside these facilities.

The government's objective for this data collection is to facilitate the management, coordination, and monitoring of the temporary stay of this community in Malaysia until they are transferred to a third country or return to their countries of origin, Dr. Zahid stated in a written parliamentary response. He was answering Mohd Sany Hamzan (PH-Hulu Langat) who questioned the government's position regarding international organizations operating in Malaysia, including UNHCR, which allegedly failed to cooperate as expected and denied sharing refugee data.

Dr. Zahid emphasized that international organizations serve as a crucial platform for cooperation and knowledge exchange to tackle transnational issues that individual nations cannot manage alone. He added that they also help enhance Malaysia's capacity and alleviate the strain of handling humanitarian concerns. Currently, the government requires UNHCR's assistance in facilitating the resettlement of refugees to third countries, as those countries rely on UNHCR cards to verify refugees and confirm their status.