Marang District Council Denies Refugee Recognition in Premise Rental

The Marang District Council has refuted claims that renting a premise in the Telaga Mengkudu Complex to a non-governmental organization (NGO) for refugee education involved any recognition of refugee status or residency rights. The council clarified that the rental agreement was conducted according to established procedures. The issue gained traction on social media after the premise was leased to an NGO that operates an education center for refugees registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). According to a statement from the council, the premise has been rented to the Global Future Network Association since 2020 under the stipulated terms and conditions. "Throughout the rental period, the premise has been used for educational and humanitarian welfare activities," the statement read. The council further explained that the NGO receives funding from UNHCR to provide basic education to refugee children who lack access to formal schooling. These activities focus on foundational learning, character development, and child welfare, aligning with universal humanitarian principles. The council emphasized that the rental does not confer any special privileges, citizenship, or residency rights to any individual. It is viewed as an asset management activity conducted within the council's authority and in compliance with current laws and regulations. The Marang District Council confirmed it has monitored the premise to ensure adherence to the rental conditions and has received no official complaints regarding violations or issues affecting public safety, order, or community harmony.

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The rental of this premise does not involve any recognition of citizenship status, residency rights, or the granting of special privileges to any individual.