Malaysia begins registration of Rohingya refugees 

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (MNTV) —  Malaysia’s Home Ministry has started registering refugees under its Refugee Registration Document program, beginning with Rohingya ethnic groups housed in 16 immigration depots nationwide, reports New Straits Times.

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the program currently focuses on biometric data registration and early screening of Burma nationals of Rohingya ethnicity.

Children are also included in four Baitul Mahabbah (care centres) managed by the immigration department.

“As of Dec 31, a total of 4,003 individuals have been registered. The group would be transferred in stages to the Special Separation Centre for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Bidor, Perak, to undergo refugee status determination interviews,” he said.

“26 detainees formed the first group to be moved to the centre on Jan 9,” he said in a written parliamentary reply.

He said that eligibility for refugee status is assessed through a two-tier process — first, by the Refugee Status Assessment Committee, which reviews interview findings and makes recommendations, and then by the Refugee Status Determination Committee, which serves as the highest authority. 

“Only individuals confirmed as refugees by the refugee registration committee will be issued an identity document known as the Refugee Registration Document,” he said.

He added that holders of the document are allowed to temporarily remain in Malaysia until a final resolution is carried out.