Politics · Malaysia Bureau
UNHCR online registration blamed for Malaysia's refugee influx
Malaysia's Foreign Minister has identified the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees' online registration system as a key driver of the country's refugee crisis. He suggested that applicants may enter Malaysia initially as tourists on social visit passes before registering with UNHCR.
LSN Malaysia ·
Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah told Parliament that the UNHCR's digital registration process has become a significant pull factor for asylum seekers attempting to enter Malaysia. The minister pointed to the accessibility of online registration as a root cause enabling potential refugees to migrate to the country with relative ease.
Saifuddin explained that applicants often arrive in Malaysia on tourist visas or social visit passes before subsequently registering with UNHCR, effectively circumventing traditional immigration controls. This loophole has allowed individuals to establish themselves in the country while their refugee status remains pending.
The minister's comments reflect growing concerns within the Malaysian government about managing refugee populations and controlling irregular migration. Malaysia has long grappled with one of the region's largest refugee populations, with over 180,000 registered and undocumented asylum seekers residing in the country.
The government has previously called for international cooperation in addressing refugee movements and has emphasized the strain placed on national resources and infrastructure. Saifuddin's remarks suggest Malaysia may pursue discussions with UNHCR regarding modifications to registration procedures to better regulate the flow of asylum seekers into the nation.