UNHCR cardholders, refugees subject to Malaysian law, can be deported

Individuals holding UNHCR cards or registered under the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) are not exempt from Malaysian law and can face deportation after serving any sentences, according to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

"If they steal, they are wrong. If they drive without a license, they can be prosecuted," Ismail stated during a press conference. He clarified that while UNHCR cardholders cannot currently be prosecuted under the Immigration Act 1959 for overstaying or entering the country without documents, the government's self-registration process via DPP aims to identify refugee data and status more accurately.

This registration process involves collecting details such as names, addresses, ages, genders, skills, and biometric data, including fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans. Ismail emphasized that the Malaysian government will ultimately decide on an individual's refugee status after verification and security screening by the Immigration Department, Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and other relevant agencies. Approximately 21,000 individuals are currently in immigration depots, with 4,000 identified as refugees whose status still requires determination.

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If they steal, they are wrong. If they drive without a license, they can be prosecuted.