Kuala lumpur: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) card is not a citizenship document and does not grant immunity from Malaysian laws, says Economy Minister Datuk Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir. He emphasized that individuals committing offences would still face investigation and legal action under existing laws.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Akmal Nasrullah clarified this position during the Global Supply Crisis Briefing, streamed live on the Ministry of Economy's Facebook page. He stated, "The government wishes to clarify that the UNHCR card is not a citizenship document and does not provide immunity from Malaysian laws. Any individual who commits an offence will still be investigated, and action will be taken."
The Economy Minister further explained that the matter was presented by the Home Ministry (KDN) at the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) meeting. This was in response to public concerns about refugee management, specifically regarding documentation, human trafficking syndicates, and their impact on local community safety.
He elaborated that KDN, through the Immigration Department, is implementing the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) Programme. This initiative includes biometric registration, screening, control, and enforcement to manage refugee issues effectively.
"Integrated operations to combat smuggling, human trafficking, document abuse, and illegal entry through unauthorized routes will be intensified," Akmal Nasrullah stated. He also noted the use of data analytics and monitoring technology to identify risks and support enforcement actions.
Moreover, Akmal Nasrullah revealed that RM1.2 billion had been allocated across several agencies for projects related to border control and security. He mentioned that the expansion of the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency's operations is being expedited to improve border management and enforcement.
The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Parliament building, also addressed issues beyond domestic and border security. Discussions included food security and the resilience of the manufacturing sector amidst global supply chain pressures.