UNHCR should not override Cabinet decisions, says Putrajaya MP

Putrajaya Member of Parliament Radzi Ahmad has raised concerns over the UNHCR's practice of registering refugees, contending that the UN agency should not be permitted to disregard decisions made by Malaysia's Cabinet.

Radzi's comments reflect ongoing tensions between the Malaysian government and international refugee agencies over asylum seeker management in the country. The UNHCR's registration programme has long been a point of contention for Malaysian authorities, who maintain that such activities should align with national policy.

Malaysia is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, and the government has traditionally maintained strict controls over refugee populations and asylum procedures. Officials have previously expressed frustration with international organisations operating independently of state directives.

The remarks underscore broader debates within the region about the proper scope of UN agency operations and national sovereignty in managing refugee and migrant populations. Several Southeast Asian nations have sought greater alignment between international humanitarian efforts and domestic policy frameworks.

The issue continues to draw parliamentary attention as Malaysia balances international humanitarian obligations with domestic concerns over border management and social integration.