Malaysia compiling nationwide refugee data under new registration programme, says Zahid

Malaysia is currently collecting nationwide refugee data through the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme, under National Security Council (MKN) Directive No. 23, according to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The first phase of the programme is currently underway, focusing on individuals detained at Immigration Detention Depots (DTI).

The second phase is expected to commence soon, concentrating on United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) cardholders living outside the DTI. The data gathering aims to facilitate the government's management, coordination, and monitoring of the temporary presence of these individuals in Malaysia, prior to their resettlement in a third country or repatriation to their country of origin, Zahid explained in a written reply on the Parliament website.

As the Rural and Regional Development Minister, Zahid responded to a query from Mohd Sany Hamzan (PH-Hulu Langat) about foreign organizations, including UNHCR, operating in the country, following claims that they have not provided adequate cooperation or shared necessary refugee data. Zahid emphasized the importance of international organizations as essential platforms for cooperation, expertise sharing, and national capacity building to tackle cross-border issues that cannot be addressed alone.

He highlighted Malaysia's past collaboration with UNHCR and other international bodies in managing Vietnamese refugees on Pulau Bidong during the late 1970s to the 1990s, which involved temporary shelter provision, resettlement, and international support. Currently, Malaysia relies on UNHCR to assist with third-country resettlement, as recipient nations depend on UNHCR cards for verifying and authenticating refugees.