Civil society groups warn against conflating refugees with undocumented migrants

The CSO Platform for Reform has raised concerns about sweeping crackdowns that do not distinguish between the two vulnerable populations, each facing distinct circumstances and protection needs. The platform warned that blanket enforcement operations fail to account for individuals fleeing conflict zones and systematic persecution, who require international protection under refugee conventions. According to the civil society groups, conflating refugees with undocumented migrant workers creates dangerous outcomes for people already at heightened risk of human rights violations. The organisations stressed that war refugees and those fleeing oppression face threats of torture, arbitrary detention, and potentially fatal consequences if subjected to standard immigration enforcement protocols. The warning highlights ongoing tensions in Malaysia's approach to migration management, with advocacy groups calling for more nuanced policies that recognise the distinction between those seeking economic opportunity and those escaping life-threatening circumstances. Civil society has urged authorities to implement screening mechanisms that identify individuals with legitimate claims to asylum protection before enforcement action is taken.