Zahid says second phase of refugee registration programme could roll out soon for UNHCR cardholders

Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, has announced that the second phase of the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme may be launched soon, aimed at United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) cardholders residing outside Immigration Detention Depots (DTIs). Currently, the programme is still in its initial phase, which targets individuals held at DTIs.

Zahid also highlighted that the government is assessing the imposition of movement controls on these groups, taking into account national security and sovereignty concerns alongside human rights.

In response to a question from Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim (PN-Arau), Zahid stated that refugees primarily enter Malaysia through syndicate networks at land and sea borders, rather than through authorized or gazetted International Entry Points. The government is intensifying efforts to bolster National Security Council (MKN) Directive No. 23, which outlines the policy and mechanism for the management of refugees and asylum seekers (2023 Revision), signed by the Prime Minister on June 14, 2023.

Additionally, Zahid emphasized that joint operations involving security agencies, enforcement bodies, and local authorities are being conducted to address violations by foreign migrants, including those involved in gang-related activities. He mentioned that the implementation of the DPP for registration purposes, combined with integrated operations by security and enforcement agencies, is anticipated to prevent negative influences that attempt to manipulate existing communities.