National security fears must not fuel refugee discrimination, says Malaysian group

National security concerns should not be used to normalize hatred and discrimination against refugees and asylum seekers, according to the Malaysian Islamic Movement (Hikam). The group acknowledges that public anxieties regarding refugees are reasonable and require serious attention through responsible, data-driven approaches.

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Concerns about national security, job opportunities, and social harmony cannot be used as an excuse to normalize hatred and discrimination against refugees and asylum seekers.

Hikam stressed the importance of distinguishing between legitimate efforts to safeguard national security and the tendency to condemn entire refugee communities who are often in desperate and vulnerable situations. The movement stated that existing concerns should not serve as a pretext for xenophobia or the normalization of hatred.

Addressing the issue requires a foundation of facts, justice, compassion, and shared responsibility, without disregarding the welfare of local citizens. Hikam urged the government to enhance systematic data management, documentation, and registration of refugees to aid enforcement and policy planning. They also called for expanded educational opportunities for refugee children and strengthened public education and media literacy to combat misinformation and xenophobic sentiments.

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We need to differentiate between efforts to protect national security and the tendency to punish entire groups who are in desperate and vulnerable situations.

Furthermore, Hikam recommended implementing cultural orientation programs, emphasizing legal compliance and social responsibility to help refugees integrate into Malaysian society. The group advocates for comprehensive policies and action plans that consider national security, the well-being of local populations, and humanitarian obligations. They also invoked the Islamic New Year to reflect on the values of protecting the oppressed and homeless, asserting that a nation's strength lies in its commitment to justice, mercy, and human dignity, not just border defense.

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The strength of a nation is not only measured by its ability to defend its borders but also in its defense of justice, mercy, and human dignity.