Without legal recognition, registered refugees still risk arrest, whipping (Malaysiakini)

 

COMMENT | Without legal recognition, registered refugees still risk arrest, whipping

Charles Hector

Published:  Jul 11, 2026 11:30 AM

⋅

Updated: 10:30 A

COMMENT | The Madani government must be applauded as Malaysia finally started its own asylum seeker and refugee assessment and recognition programme on Jan 1 with the Refugee Registration Document (RRD) programme.

However, it is shocking that “Until June 2026, 128 Myanmar nationals of Rohingya ethnicity, comprising 127 adult men and one adult woman, were transferred to PPKPPS (Special Detention Centre for Refugees and Asylum Seekers) Bidor, Perak.

“Following the status determination process, 78 individuals comprising 77 men and one woman have been approved as refugees under the RRD programme.

“The release process will only be carried out after all related procedures have been completed,” he (Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail) said. (Malay Mail, July 9)

The registration process must be expedited.

Legislation needed

Malaysia is home to more than 215,000 asylum seekers and refugees (not including those still being processed for recognition). (Malay Mail, June 23)

Until the Immigration Act is amended or new laws enacted, the present Act treats foreigners as undocumented migrants unless they possess valid work permits, passes, or visas recognised by law that allow them to be in Malaysia temporarily.

If they are undocumented, they are at risk of arrest, detention, and being charged in court for illegally being in Malaysia, which makes them liable to a fine not exceeding RM10,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or to both, and shall also be liable to whipping of not more than six strokes. (Section 6(3) Immigration Act 1959/63)

Sadly, to date, the possession of RRD passes or cards has yet to be incorporated in law - thus, there is the risk that asylum seekers and refugees, even with RRD passes/cards, would still be considered lawbreakers present illegally in Malaysia.

“According to Prisons Department records, 47,914 foreigners were found to have violated the Immigration Act from 2002 to 2008. Of these, 34,923 were caned or whipped.”

No recent data found, and one wonders how many genuine asylum seekers and refugees were also whipped in Malaysia – and may continue to be imprisoned and whipped unless laws are speedily amended/enacted to recognise asylum seekers and refugees as persons with rights to temporarily be in Malaysia.

The Malaysians Against Death Penalty and Torture (Madpet) urges Malaysia to speedily amend the Immigration Act to recognise the RRD as a valid pass or proof of legal presence in Malaysia, for we certainly do not want any more asylum seekers and refugees to still be arrested, detained, or charged for illegally being in Malaysia.

Considering the process of registration may take time, Madpet also asks that those asylum seekers who are going to apply or have submitted their application for registration also be accorded protection too.

Noting that in six months, Malaysia has only managed to process and give RRDs to just 78 individuals, Madpet urges that the process be expedited in the interest of justice, noting there may be more than 200,000 asylum seekers and refugees in Malaysia.

Madpet calls upon Malaysia to enact a Refugee and Asylum Seeker law that will also provide legal recognition for the RRD programme.

Comply with non-refoulement principle

Saifuddin said the programme will ultimately lead to only three possible outcomes: repatriation, third-country resettlement, or deportation for legal offenders.

There are only three possible outcomes in managing refugees and asylum seekers.

“First, repatriation, which means sending them home once their country is safe and permits their return. Even if they are registered under the RRD, it does not mean they will remain here indefinitely.

“Second, resettlement in a third country. International agencies such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) must continue fulfilling that role. The UNHCR exists to register refugees and secure third-country placements.

“Third, deportation for those who violate laws and regulations. If they commit crimes and all due legal processes, convictions, and appeals have been exhausted, they will be deported. (NST, May 18)

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail

Madpet applauds Malaysia’s commitment to not send asylum seekers and refugees home until their country is safe and permits their return is consistent with the principle of non-refoulement.

The principle of non-refoulement forms an essential protection under international human rights, refugee, humanitarian, and customary law.

It prohibits states from transferring or removing individuals from their jurisdiction or effective control when there are substantial grounds for believing that the person would be at risk of irreparable harm upon return, including persecution, torture, ill-treatment, or other serious human rights violations.

Need income to survive

In the past, the UN, through the UNHCR, undertook to bear the cost of accommodation and upkeep of these asylum seekers and refugees until they are settled in a third country, but now that burden falls on the nation state accepting refugees, or directly on the asylum seekers and refugees themselves who are expected to find their own food or shelter.

Housing and feeding some 200,000-plus refugees and asylum seekers in special detention centres may be impossible at the moment, so it is best to consider employment for refugees so they can earn and fend for themselves while not living in places of detention.

Thus, it was good to note that Malaysia is considering this - “He (Saifuddin) added that the programme also explored the possibility of matching approved refugees and asylum seekers with employers facing labour shortages in sectors such as manufacturing, plantations, agriculture, and construction.” (NST, May 18

Madpet proposes that Malaysia prioritise using asylum seekers and refugees to overcome labour needs first before resorting to bringing in migrant workers from other countries. There are 2,132,578 active and legally employed migrant workers as of Oct 15, 2025. (NST, Nov 3, 2025)

School for refugee children

As of early 2026, there are approximately 215,600 registered refugees and asylum-seekers in Malaysia according to UNHCR, though women and children still account for more than half of the total population.

Roughly 28,600 children fall into the primary or secondary school-going age brackets. There may be even more, being those who have yet to be registered by UNHCR.

Madpet calls on Malaysia to allow all these asylum seeker and refugee children to continue their studies in Malaysian public schools or other schools as the government deems appropriate. A child’s future is at risk if he/she cannot receive or continue their education.

A refugee has been defined as someone who has fled their country of nationality and is unable or unwilling to return due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group – but for Malaysians, they are just human beings who need our temporary assistance.

Their children should never lose out on the basic right to study in schools, more so since Malaysia has ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).

The speedy assessment and determination of asylum seeker or refugee status is crucial to prevent Malaysia from unknowingly further persecuting these persons, who have sought our temporary help.

Hence, the importance of providing legal protection for asylum seekers and refugees through laws – temporary policies not recognised in law will not do.

---

CHARLES HECTOR is an activist with the Malaysians Against Death Penalty and Torture (Madpet). - Malaysiakini, 11/7/2026

See also 

Even With Malaysia’s Refugee Registration Document (DPP), A Refugee Is Still at Risk of Arrest,...Immigration Act Must Recognize DPP As Document Permitting Legal Stay in Malaysia, And..

 

 

UK designated the IRGC, the Iranian Armed Forces, a TERRORIST GROUP - WHY? Because IRAN defended itself against the ILLEGAL US-Iran attack?

It is SHOCKING and disappointing the UK has listed the Iranian armed forces, popularly known as the Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a 'terror group' in law. Most ODD is the TIMING - is it saying that it supports the US-Israel ILLEGAL War, and opposes Iran's right to defend itself? RATIONALE???? 

UK has not listed the Israeli Zionist Regime, armed forces, popularly known as the Israeli Defence Forces(IDF) as a 'terror group' despite it is a FACT that they have continuously conducted extra-judicial killings against Palestinians in Gaza and West Bank - now, over 70,000 killed.

UK has not designated the Myanmar Junta, and its armed forces, which is responsible for killings and genocidal actions affecting so many minority ethnic groups a 'Terror Group'?

UK has also not designated the US or its armed forces as 'terror groups' despite its ILLEGAL war against Venezuela and IRAN that has caused so much destruction and deaths.

UK and EU nation states were commended for taking the position of not joining the US-Israel ILLEGAL WAR, contrary to International Law and the UN Charter, but then, this action of making a nation state's armed forces a 'terror group' tarnishes its image as a country that respects justice and human rights.

STATES also can be guilty of TERRORISM and as such ought to be condemned...so, how can the UK justify making the IRGC a terrorist group NOW that most people know that US-Israel attack, killing and destruction of IRAN was unlawful?  

The UK government listed Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terror group on Monday, using new powers introduced under the National Security (State Threats) Act, according to media reports, Anadolu reports....Following the designation, it is now a criminal offense to invite support for or express support for the groups, assist them in carrying out UK-related activities, engage in conduct likely to materially assist them, or accept or retain material benefits provided by or on their behalf, according to the report. - Middle East Monitor, 13/7/2026

What will Malaysia do? Will Malaysia designate the Zionist Israeli Regime's Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as a 'terrorist group' in Malaysia? Will Malaysia designate the US Armed Forces as a 'terrorist group'?

Will Malaysia sent a PROTEST NOTE to UK? 

ACTIONS by UK must be condemned - on what basis can you justify designating the IRGC as a terrorist group - more so since it no separate group unlike the ISIS, but the armed forces of a nation State, a member of the UN? 

UK lists Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps as ‘terror group’

July 13, 2026 at 3:46 pm

Members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) participate in a military exercise aimed at “increasing combat capabilities” in Tehran province, Iran, on May 12, 2026. [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps – Anadolu Agency]

The UK government listed Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terror group on Monday, using new powers introduced under the National Security (State Threats) Act, according to media reports, Anadolu reports.

In a written statement to parliament, Security Minister Angela Eagle said the government had “identified activity linked to the IRGC involving threats to life and intimidation on UK soil,” Sky News reported.

The government also designated the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR), which Sky News described as being linked to Iran.

The decision followed the fast-tracking of the National Security (State Threats) Act, as promised by Prime Minister Keir Starmer in April.

Following the designation, it is now a criminal offense to invite support for or express support for the groups, assist them in carrying out UK-related activities, engage in conduct likely to materially assist them, or accept or retain material benefits provided by or on their behalf, according to the report.- Middle East Monitor, 13/7/2026

If Minister allows, Migrant Worker can become leaders of Malaysian Trade Unions - Thus, only remaining issue is the RIGHT of Migrant Workers to form Trade Unions

Migrant Workers CANNOT form Trade Unions, but they can JOIN Trade Unions

For a long time, we thought that MIGRANT workers could never be elected as Office Bearers of Trade UNIONS - but recently Malaysia told ILO that migrant workers CAN BE office bearers of Trade Unions.

HOW? The UNION applies to the Minister under Section 30 for an EXEMPTION...

The law as is:- 

 Section 28  Officers [TRADE UNIONS ACT 1959]

(1) A person shall not be or act as a member of the executive of a trade union or any branch thereof, or of any federation of trade unions, and shall be disqualified for election as such member, if-

(a) he is not a citizen of the Federation;...

...Provided that paragraphs (a) shall not apply in the case of a union which, in the opinion of the Minister, is required by its objects to represent persons or the interests of persons who are not resident in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah or Sarawak, as the case may be. 

Section 30  Power of Minister in relation to sections 28 and 29

The Minister may by order-

(a) declare that section 28 or 29 shall not apply to any registered trade union or class of registered trade unions specified in the order; or

(b) grant, either absolutely or subject to such conditions as he may consider reasonably necessary, exemption from all or any of the provisions of section 28 or 29 in respect of officers or employees or such proportion or class of officers or employees of any registered trade union or class of registered trade unions as may be specified in the order.

# Section 29 is about EMPLOYEES of Trade Unions 

Thus, now all Malaysian Trade Unions who also have MIGRANT WORKER members can apply for a Section 30 Exemption which will allow Migrant Workers, like any other members, to also be able to stand for UNION elections - and maybe even be elected in as office bearers and leaders of Trade Unions...  JUSTLY all Trade Unions with migrant worker members should apply for this EXEMPTION - Will a Migrant Worker get elected as a UNION leader > that depends on the members of the said Union who will democratically elect their leaders...

 

Migrant workers

 

Malaysia affirms that section 28(1)(a) of the Trade Unions Act 1959, which requires the authorization of the Minister of Human Resources prior to the registration of union office bearers, plays a crucial role in safeguarding national security and upholding the integrity of the industrial relations system. As of 2024, more than 28,000 foreign workers are registered as union members. To further support inclusive representation, a blanket ministerialexemption, effective from 15 January 2025, was granted to a trade union that submitted a formal application to register their office bearers under section 28(2) of the Act. This exemption enables non-citizen union officers to serve without requiring individual approval, demonstrating Malaysia’s balanced and progressive approach to trade union governance. – This is what Malaysia told ILO, an extract from ILO Committeeon the Application of Standards CAN/PV.17/Malaysia-C.98 dated 10 June 2025 - see page 11

 

Trade Unions (Alice Smith School Teachers’ Union) (Exemption) Order 2025 – ‘The Minister exempts the officers of the Alice Smith School Teachers’ Union who are not a citizen of the Federation from the provision of paragraph 28(1)(a) of the Act.’

 

No Trade UNION would have happy with the DISCRIMINATION faced by their fellow union members - simply because they are NOT Malaysian citizens..

 

A UNION treats all WORKERS as EQUAL - they do not DISCRIMINATE based on GENDER and certainly not based on Nationality.

 

What about NON-CITIZEN employees - well, one most important JOB of a Trade Union employee is the 'Union Organizer' who works to convince workers to join the Trade Union > and if there are workers of other nationalities - it makes GOOD SENSE that the UNION employs someone who is fluent with the language of such non-Malaysian nationals, and it is also important to facilitate communication between said non-Malaysian national worker with the Union, and even with Labour Department/Industrial Relations Department/Police/etc - thus a UNION employee who can help in Translation is CRUCIAL...

 

Section 29  Employees of a trade union 

(1) A registered trade union or registered federation of trade unions may, subject to subsection (2) and the rules of such trade union or federation of trade unions, employ any person as an employee of the registered trade union or of the registered federation of trade unions.

(2) A person shall not be employed by a registered trade union under subsection (1)-

(a) if he is not a citizen of the Federation resident in Peninsular Malaysia, in the case of a trade union in Peninsular Malaysia, or resident in Sabah, in the case of a trade union in Sabah, or resident in Sarawak, in the case of a trade union in Sarawak;....

...Provided that paragraph (a) shall not apply in the case of union which, in the opinion of the Minister, is required by its objects to represent persons or the interests of persons who are not resident in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah or Sarawak as the case may be, and that paragraph (c) shall not apply to a federation of trade unions registered under Part XII.

(3) Any person who is disqualified to be employed by a trade union under subsection (2) and has himself so employed without first obtaining the exemption of the Minister under paragraph 30(b), shall be guilty of an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding five thousand ringgit.

WILL Malaysia now allow Trade Unions to employ non-citizens? Migrant workers are now only allowed to work in certain sectors - Will Malaysia NOW allow foreign nationals to be employed by Malaysian Trade Unions - noting that now, there are about 2 million plus foreign workers in Malaysia - YES the Malaysian Government must allow this.

 

AS, a matter of policy and practice, the Labour Ministry(HR Ministry) also must have staff who are FLUENT in the language of different nationalities allowed to work in Malaysia - to facilitate filing of complains and law enforcement process. 

 

Malaysia have MIGRANT workers from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand ... and we do not want 'LANGUAGE' to prevent the due administration of labour justice in Malaysia...? 

 

RIGHT of Migrant Workers to form Trade Unions 

 

If one talks to Malaysian workers and Trade Union members, one realizes that NOT all workers want to FORM, or even JOIN Trade Unions - It all starts with a FEW workers taking the initiative to form Trade Unions. Thus, at a WORKPLACE, if those who want to form a Trade Union are only MIGRANT WORKERS - it is GROSSLY UNJUST that these workers are denied the right to move forward and form a TRADE UNION.

 

Malaysia must END DISCRIMINATION against migrant workers in Malaysia - and allow MIGRANT workers to be able to FORM Trade Unions...

 

MALAYSIA MUST BE A COUNTRY THAT RESPECTS WORKER AND TRADE UNION RIGHTS - and this DISCRIMINATION by law against Migrant Workers MUST END - after all, Migrant workers make up approximately 15-20% of Malaysia’s workforce, now around 2.2 million documented foreign workers...  

Even With Malaysia’s Refugee Registration Document (DPP), A Refugee Is Still at Risk of Arrest,...Immigration Act Must Recognize DPP As Document Permitting Legal Stay in Malaysia, And

 

Media Statement – 11/7/2026

Even With Malaysia’s Refugee Registration Document (DPP), A Refugee Is Still at Risk of Arrest, Detention, Whipping and Deportation Until the Law Recognizes It as Proof of Legal Presence in Malaysia

Immigration Act Must Recognize DPP As Document Permitting Legal Stay in Malaysia, And NEW Law on Refugee and Asylum Seeker Must Be Enacted to Legalize DPP Process and Recognition of Asylum Seeker and Refugee

Malaysia’s MADANI government must be applauded as Malaysia finally started its own asylum seeker and refugee assessment and recognition program on 1/1/2026 with the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme.

However, it is shocking that “Until June 2026, 128 Myanmar nationals of Rohingya ethnicity, comprising 127 adult men and one adult woman, were transferred to PPKPPS (Special Detention Centre for Refugees and Asylum Seekers) Bidor, Perak… “Following the status determination process, 78 individuals comprising 77 men and one woman have been approved as refugees under the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme. The release process will only be carried out after all related procedures have been completed,” he (Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail) said. (Malay Mail, 9/7/2026)

The registration process must be expedited.

Need for Law to accord legal recognition for the Refugee Registration Document (DPP)

Malaysia, is home to more than 215,000 asylum seekers and refugees (not including those still being processed for recognition) (Malay Mail, 23/6/2026), and until the Immigration Act is amended or new laws enacted, noting that the present Malaysia's Immigration Act, treats foreigners as undocumented individuals or illegal immigrants unless they possess valid work permits, passes or visas recognized by law that allows them to be in Malaysia temporarily. If they are undocumented, they are at risk of arrest, detention and charged in court for illegally being in Malaysia, which on conviction, make them liable to a fine not exceeding ten thousand ringgit or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years or to both, and shall also be liable to whipping of not more than six strokes. (Sec.6(3) Immigration Act 1959/63).

Sadly, to date the possession of DPP Passes or Cards has yet to be incorporated in law – thus the risk of asylum seekers and refugees even with DPP passes/cards would still being considered law breakers present illegally in Malaysia.

“According to Prisons Department records, 47,914 foreigners were found to have violated the Immigration Act from 2002 to 2008. Of these, 34,923 were caned or whipped.” No recent data found, and one wonders how many genuine asylum seekers and refugees were also whipped in Malaysia – and may still continue to be imprisoned and whipped unless laws are speedily amended/enacted to recognize asylum seekers and refugees as persons with rights to temporarily be in Malaysia.

MADPET (Malaysians Against Death Penalty and Torture) urges Malaysia to speedily amend the Immigration Act to recognize the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) as a valid pass or proof of legal presence in Malaysia, for we certainly do not want any more asylum seekers and refugees to still be arrested, detained or charged for illegally being in Malaysia.

Considering the process of registration may take time, MADPET also ask that those asylum seekers who are going to apply or have submitted their application for registration also be accorded protection too.

DPP Registration Process Must Be Expedited

Noting that in 6 months, Malaysia has only managed to process and give DPPs to just 78 individuals, MADPET urges that the process be expedited in the interest of justice, noting there maybe more than 200,000 asylum seekers and refugees in Malaysia.

MADPET (Malaysians Against Death Penalty and Torture) calls upon Malaysia to enacting a Refugee and Asylum Seeker law, that will also provide legal recognition for the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme.

Malaysia Assures No Repatriation – Compliance with The Principle of Non-Refoulement

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the programme will ultimately lead to only three possible outcomes: repatriation, third-country resettlement, or deportation for legal offenders… There are only three possible end outcomes in managing refugees and asylum seekers. "First, repatriation, which means sending them home once their country is safe and permits their return. Even if they are registered under the DPP, it does not mean they will remain here indefinitely. "Second, resettlement in a third country. International agencies such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) must continue fulfilling that role. The UNHCR exists to register refugees and secure third-country placements. "Third, deportation for those who violate laws and regulations. If they commit crimes and all due legal processes, convictions and appeals have been exhausted, they will be deported. (NST, 18/5/2026)

MADPET applauds Malaysian commitment to not send asylum seekers and refugees home until their country is safe and permits their return is consistent with the principle of non-refoulement. The principle of non-refoulement forms an essential protection under international human rights, refugee, humanitarian and customary law. It prohibits States from transferring or removing individuals from their jurisdiction or effective control when there are substantial grounds for believing that the person would be at risk of irreparable harm upon return, including persecution, torture, ill-treatment or other serious human rights violations.

Asylum Seekers and Refugees Need Income to Survive in Malaysia – Employment?

In the past, the UN through the UNHCR undertook to bear the cost of accommodation and upkeep of these asylum seekers and refugees until they are settled in a third country, but now that burden falls of the nation state accepting refugees, or directly on the asylum seekers and refugees themselves who are expected to find their own food or shelter.

Housing and feeding some 200,000 plus refugees and asylum seekers in PPKPPS (Special Detention Centre for Refugees and Asylum Seekers) may be impossible at the moment, so it is best to consider employment for refugees so that they can earn and fend for themselves whilst living not in places of detention.

Thus, it was good to note that Malaysia is considering this – ‘…He[Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail] added that the programme also explored the possibility of matching approved refugees and asylum seekers with employers facing labour shortages in sectors such as manufacturing, plantations, agriculture and construction…’ . (NST, 18/5/2026)

MADPET proposes Malaysia to prioritize use asylum seekers and refugees, already in Malaysia, to overcome labour needs first before resorting to bringing in migrant workers from other countries. 2,132,578 active and legally employed foreign workers as of Oct 15, 2025 (NST, 3/11/2025).  

About 28,000 Refugee Children That Need to Go to School

As of early 2026, there are approximately 215,600 registered refugees and asylum-seekers in Malaysia according to UNHCR, though women and children still account for more than half of the total population. Roughly 28,600 children fall into the primary or secondary school-going age brackets. There may be even more, being those who have yet to be registered by UNHCR.

MADPET calls on Malaysia to allow all these asylum seeker and refugee children should be allowed to continue their studies in Malaysian public schools or other schools as the Government deem appropriate. A child’s future is at RISK if he/she cannot receive or continue their education.

A refugee has been defined as someone who has fled their country of nationality and is unable or unwilling to return due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group – but for Malaysians, they are just HUMAN BEINGs that need our temporary assistance, and their CHILDREN should never lose out on the basic right to study in schools, more so since Malaysia has ratified United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).

The speedy assessment and determination of asylum seeker or refugee status is CRUCIAL to prevent Malaysia from unknowingly further persecuting these persons, who has sought our temporary help. Hence, the importance in providing legal protection for asylum seekers and refugees through LAWS – temporary policies not recognized in law simply will not do.

Charles Hector

For and on behalf of MADPET (Malaysians Against Death Penalty and Torture)

 

Home minister says 78 Rohingya granted refugee status, 25 eligible for work under DPP pilot scheme

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail speaks during the Minister’s Question Time session at the Dewan Rakyat in Kuala Lumpur on February 26, 2026. — Bernama pic

By Anis Zalani

First Published: Thursday, 09 Jul 2026 10:36 AM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 — A total of 78 Myanmar nationals of Rohingya ethnicity have been granted refugee status under Malaysia’s new Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme, with 25 of them identified as eligible for employment under a pilot work initiative.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirmed the figures in a written parliamentary reply yesterday, noting that these individuals were part of the programme’s first phase, which initially targeted detainees in Perak’s Immigration Detention Depots.

“Until June 2026, 128 Myanmar nationals of Rohingya ethnicity, comprising 127 adult men and one adult woman, were transferred to PPKPPS (Special Detention Centre for Refugees and Asylum Seekers) Bidor, Perak.

“Following the status determination process, 78 individuals comprising 77 men and one woman have been approved as refugees under the DPP programme. The release process will only be carried out after all related procedures have been completed,” he said.

The minister was responding to an inquiry from Seputeh MP Teresa Kok regarding the DPP programme’s progress, the number of refugees permitted to work, and the role of NGOs in the registration process.

Launched on January 1, the DPP programme establishes a formal mechanism to identify and manage migrants seeking temporary protection in Malaysia. The Home Ministry handles biometric collection, security screenings, and the verification of protection claims.

“The process involves migrants holding UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency) documents as well as individuals who declare themselves as refugees.

“It is not limited to documentation alone, as each applicant must undergo the necessary screening and verification process before being recognised under the programme,” Saifuddin Nasution added.

Successful applicants receive a DPP card, which serves as the government-recognised identification for a temporary stay in Peninsular Malaysia.

During Phase 1, the ministry recorded 4,010 detainees, including 4,008 Myanmar nationals of Rohingya ethnicity, one Sudanese national, and one Syrian national. This group consists of 2,746 adult men, 632 adult women, 392 boys, and 240 girls. Transfers to PPKPPS Bidor are being managed gradually to accommodate the centre’s 400-person capacity.

Phase 2, which extends to UNHCR cardholders and refugee claimants currently outside detention facilities, is expected to launch in the second half of 2026.

“The registration process for this group will be conducted at refugee status determination centres that will be announced later.

“The ministry is targeting for the registration exercise to be fully completed by December 31, 2029,” he said.

Saifuddin Nasution further noted that the government is exploring employment opportunities for recognised refugees through the DPP Employment Programme. He clarified that the registration exercise remains entirely under the jurisdiction of the Immigration Department of Malaysia, with no involvement from NGOs. - Malay Mail, 9/7/2026

DPP registration will not grant refugees permanent residency in Malaysia, says Saifuddin

By Zahratulhayat Mat Arif

May 18, 2026 @ 1:52pm

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. - NSTP FILEPIC

TAPAH: Refugees and asylum seekers registered under the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme will not be allowed to permanently settle in Malaysia, even if they are matched with employers.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the programme will ultimately lead to only three possible outcomes: repatriation, third-country resettlement, or deportation for legal offenders.

"I must emphasise this important point. There are only three possible end outcomes in managing refugees and asylum seekers.

"First, repatriation, which means sending them home once their country is safe and permits their return. Even if they are registered under the DPP, it does not mean they will remain here indefinitely.

"Second, resettlement in a third country. International agencies such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) must continue fulfilling that role. The UNHCR exists to register refugees and secure third-country placements.

"Third, deportation for those who violate laws and regulations. If they commit crimes and all due legal processes, convictions and appeals have been exhausted, they will be deported.

"So the DPP programme still leads to only these three outcomes. It does not mean that once they are registered under the DPP and matched with employers, they can permanently settle here," he said.

He said this during a working visit to the Special Refugee and Asylum Seeker Separation Centre in Bidor today.

Saifuddin said the programme, which officially began on Jan 1 this year, was introduced as part of a structured and humane approach to managing refugees and asylum seekers without compromising national security and sovereignty.

He said the ministry was leading the implementation of the programme involving 20 ministries and agencies to develop a government-managed database on refugees and asylum seekers in the country.

"The purpose of the DPP is for the government itself to maintain records. Previously, only the UNHCR kept records, while the government did not have detailed information on who they were or where they were located.

"Under the DPP, we collect biometrics, voice recordings, facial recognition data and detailed personal information to ensure more effective monitoring and management," he said.

He said phase one of the programme was currently focused on Rohingya migrants from Myanmar being held at immigration depots nationwide.

Authorities had identified 4,010 individuals under the category, comprising 4,008 Myanmar nationals, one Sudanese and one Syrian.

"At present, we have 101 Rohingya detainees here in Bidor, consisting of 100 adult men and one adult woman.

"Of that number, 78 have already been approved for refugee status under the DPP programme after undergoing strict screening and interview processes," he said.

Saifuddin said approved individuals would continue to be monitored by the Immigration Department under existing regulations and standard operating procedures.

He added that the programme also explored the possibility of matching approved refugees and asylum seekers with employers facing labour shortages in sectors such as manufacturing, plantations, agriculture and construction.

However, he added that security considerations remained paramount.

"We cannot compromise on the element of security. The interviews are strict and involve questions related to security and immigration.

"Each individual is thoroughly assessed before any approval is granted," he said, adding that several employers from Penang had already interviewed selected candidates under the pilot project.

He said employers viewed the initiative positively as it significantly reduced recruitment costs compared with conventional foreign worker hiring processes involving agents, visa applications and overseas recruitment expenses.

"At the same time, employers must comply with labour laws, including minimum wage requirements and providing decent accommodation," he said.

On concerns raised by the UNHCR regarding data protection and refugee rights under the DPP programme, Saifuddin said Malaysia will proceed with the initiative based on its own national interests and security requirements.

"They can say whatever they want. But we believe proceeding with the DPP fulfils the objectives we have outlined.

"The UNHCR should continue focusing on registering refugees and finding third countries willing to accept them. If more countries are willing to take them, that would be better for Malaysia," he said. - NST, 18/5/2026

 

 

Communities protest environment and health risk of rare earth/gold minings in Myanmmar to farmers/communities in Thailand - VICTIMS and others MUST speak out but in Malaysia....???

If the people VICTIMs, or potential victims, do not come out and protest injustice and rights violations > then the 'message' that spreads is that the people, especially those most at RISK, is OK with it. We cannot trust politically appointed leadership of villages, kampung barus, Tamans and even the Local Government/Council - is many prioritize 'obedience' to those who made them 'leaders' - rather than the best interest of the people in the area they are responsible to.

PH's MADANI government just extended LYNAS operating license to another 10 years, and did the people most at risk, being those living 10-30 kilometers from the said factory and/or the PDF AGREE to this > or were they in fact never consulted or asked for their approval at all?  

The Thai protest highlights the fact that those that can be affected by gold/rare earth mining can be affected even thousands/hundreds of kilometres away...  

But, in Thailand people are protesting environmental pollution and healthcare risk that is coming from mining activities in Myanmar that is now directly affecting people and communities in Thailand...

Statement of the NGO Coordination Committee on Development (NGO-COD)

Condemning the State's Use of Violence Against Peaceful Demonstrators at the Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Chiang Mai and Calling for Accountability

It has come to our attention that, at around midday today (6 July 2026), members of the public gathered at the Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Chiang Mai to peacefully express their genuine intention to protect the Kok River and the environment from the impacts of mining operations by transnational corporations. This constituted the legitimate exercise of their fundamental rights and freedoms in a democratic society to defend their community rights and way of life.

However, what occurred today is deeply shameful and entirely unacceptable. Police officers used force to disperse and assault peaceful, unarmed demonstrators, resulting in two people sustaining serious injuries. In particular, one protester suffered a broken arm.

The NGO Coordination Committee on Development (NGO-COD) declares its position and makes the following unequivocal demands to the Royal Thai Government, the Royal Thai Police, and all relevant authorities:

1. We strongly condemn the actions of state officials. We unequivocally condemn the excessive use of force by police officers today. Such actions constitute a serious violation of human rights, contravene international standards on the policing of public assemblies, and undermine the people's constitutional rights and freedoms, including the right to freedom of expression.

2. Those responsible must be held accountable, and prompt remedies must be provided. The Royal Thai Police and the commanding officers responsible for the operation must immediately establish an independent and transparent fact-finding investigation. Officers responsible for the unlawful use of force must be held accountable in accordance with the law, without exception. The authorities must also ensure full compensation and cover all medical expenses incurred by those who were injured.

3. Stop protecting corporate interests and start listening to the people. Today's incident further demonstrates that state institutions are resorting to violence to shield and protect the interests of transnational corporations while ignoring the suffering of affected communities. The Thai Government and the Government of the People's Republic of China must stop turning a blind eye to this crisis and take immediate, genuine action to address the toxic contamination of the Kok River.

The NGO Coordination Committee on Development (NGO-COD), together with People’s movements , reaffirms that state violence will not deter the people's determination to defend their land and rivers. We stand in solidarity with those who have been injured and will continue to strengthen our collective efforts to demand justice and uphold the rights of the people without surrender.

With respect for human rights and human dignity,

NGO Coordination Committee on Development (NGO-COD)

6 July 2026

Please see the Thai statement here:  https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=876550062180501&set=a.693290690506440

Protest Held in Chiang Mai Urging China to Address River Pollution Linked to Mining Operations in Myanmar

July 6, 2026

Local residents in northern Thailand have urged the Chinese government to address pollution affecting the Kok, Sai, Ruak and Mekong rivers, which they say has been caused by toxic waste from mining operations in Myanmar reportedly backed by Chinese investors.

Representatives of the People’s Network for the Protection of the Kok, Sai, Ruak and Mekong Rivers gathered outside the Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai on July 6, where they submitted a petition addressed to Chinese President Xi Jinping through a representative of the Chinese government.

The petition alleges that toxic heavy metals released from mining operations in Myanmar have contaminated the rivers, affecting agriculture, fisheries, tourism and the safety of drinking water supplies in northern Thailand.

According to the network, the pollution has affected approximately 110,000 hectares of rice fields, 60 fishing villages, more than 40,000 households in Chiang Rai, and over 120,000 people.

The group called on the Chinese government to investigate and hold accountable Chinese companies and investors operating overseas whose activities are causing environmental damage, and to end support for projects responsible for transboundary pollution.

It also urged authorities to trace the origins of antimony, tungsten, tin, lead, copper and manganese transported from Myanmar through Thailand to China. The network said the investigation should determine whether the minerals originated from mines linked to environmental destruction and disclose the findings publicly.

The petition further called on Chinese officials to meet with affected communities, announce a clear action plan through the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation framework, and establish a joint inspection mission involving relevant authorities to investigate mining sites in Myanmar.

According to the network, the inspection team should include representatives from Thailand as well as affected local communities, assess whether the mining operations comply with international environmental standards, and publicly release its findings.

The headwaters of the Kok and Sai rivers originate in Myanmar’s Shan State. The network said available information indicates that Chinese-speaking business operators are involved in mining activities in the area and that minerals extracted there are transported across the border into China. However, it noted that the ownership and licensing details of individual mining operations have not been independently verified.

The network warned that the river contamination is not solely a domestic issue for Thailand but a transboundary environmental and public health crisis that requires coordinated action by Myanmar, Thailand and China. - New Day Myanmmar, 6/7/2026

Chinese embassy protest in Bangkok links Myanmar mines to polluted Thai rivers

'This is Thailand, not Tiananmen'

Ryan TurnerPublished: July 8, 2026, 4:15 PM

Protesters hold poster demanding a solution to cross-border toxic pollution in the Mekong River resulting from mining operations in Myanmar by Chinese investors | AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit

Civil society groups gathered in protest outside the Chinese embassy in Bangkok today, July 8, to demand accountability from Beijing over cross-border river pollution linked to Chinese-backed mining in Myanmar.

The rally was organised by the NGO Coordinating Committee on Development (NGO-COD) together with civil society networks.

Demonstrators held a symbolic ceremony in which organisers poured water, said to have been collected from affected areas, onto a map of Thailand and Myanmar to represent environmental damage in the Kok, Sai, Ruak, and Mekong river basins.

Some participants wore masks depicting Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Lertsak Kamkongsak, chairperson of NGO-COD, read a statement calling on the Chinese government to address cross-border pollution, citing findings of contaminants detected in local waterways.

The statement called for accountability from operators linked to mining projects in Shan State, Myanmar, and urged that cross-border investment be accompanied by environmental and community responsibility.

Protesters hold a poster demanding a solution to cross-border toxic pollution in the Mekong River resulting from mining operations in Myanmar by Chinese investors | AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit

Police Colonel Sonsak Thongmee of Huai Khwang Police Station, who oversaw the gathering, said officers had acted in accordance with the law and used appropriate crowd management measures, and the rally ended peacefully.

The network reiterated four demands directed at the Chinese government:

• Oversight of Chinese companies and investors operating mines in Myanmar
• Traceability checks on minerals, including antimony, tungsten, tin, lead, copper, and manganese, imported through Thailand
• A visit to the affected communities along the river network
• A joint inspection team, including Thai representatives, to visit the mining sites in Myanmar

After the protest, the Chinese embassy in Bangkok closed for half a day and increased security measures around the compound during the demonstration, officials said.

The protest is the latest development in an ongoing dispute over contamination in the Kok, Sai, Ruak, and Mekong rivers, which campaigners say originates from gold and rare earth mining operations in Myanmar’s Shan State backed by Chinese investment. Thai Ger, 8/7/2026

Thai health officials have previously reported finding arsenic in residents living near the Kok River, and heavy metals have been detected in water and fish samples from the affected rivers.

A similar protest was held outside the Chinese consulate in Chiang Mai on July 6, where demonstrators from the People’s Network to Protect the Kok, Sai, Ruak, and Mekong Rivers said they were confronted by police while attempting to submit a petition.

Two protesters were reportedly injured, including one who underwent surgery for a broken arm, though Chiang Mai police maintained that officers “followed standard procedure” and denied any intention to use force against demonstrators.

This prompted a Bangkok protester to hold up a sign which said: “This is Thailand, not Tiananmen.”

Protesters hold a poster demanding a solution to cross-border toxic pollution in the Mekong River resulting from mining operations in Myanmar by Chinese investors | AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit

 

  

 

The mining challenge

PUBLISHED : 8 Jul 2026 at 01:01

NEWSPAPER SECTION: Oped

WRITER: Editorial

Since 2024, villagers in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai living along the Kok, Sai, Ruak and Mekong rivers have suffered water pollution caused by runoff from gold and earth mines in Shan State, northern Myanmar.

In August that year, Mae Sai residents in Chiang Rai saw their town buried under foot-deep mud carried downstream by the Sai River from open-pit mines and deforested mountains in eastern Shan State. Toxic residues, including cyanide from mineral extraction, have reportedly flowed from rudimentary mines and been found in these rivers and sediments.

As rare earths become increasingly sought-after, ethnic armed groups in resource-rich Shan State have opened the door to mining investors, mostly from neighbouring China. These mining activities are conducted in mountainous areas without credible environmental oversight from authorities or transparent mining companies. Without proper controls, it would not be surprising if toxic waste from unchecked mining operations were dumped into rivers.

On Monday, affected villagers and civic groups held a peaceful rally near the Chinese Consulate General in Chiang Mai to submit a petition addressed to Chinese President Xi Jinping, asking the Chinese government to oversee Chinese rare-earth investments in the area.

Unfortunately, the peaceful rally turned violent after police appeared to overreact while trying to prevent demonstrators from approaching the consulate. Two demonstrators were injured, reportedly suffering broken arms.

There was no need for police to use force, as the protesters were only seeking help from the Chinese government. The crowd-control police unit must clarify why unnecessary force was used and apologise.

Indeed, the protest near the consulate is also a slap in the face for the Thai government and responsible ministries. Since 2024, the government has promised to raise the issue with relevant countries, including Myanmar and China.

Beijing has proven highly effective in tackling scam operations in Myanmar through cooperation with the Thai government over the past year. Beijing even sent senior law enforcement official Liu Zhongyi to signal the seriousness with which it views the fight against scam networks.

The government under prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra responded energetically to China's request by taking drastic measures, including halting fuel supplies and cutting internet and electricity access to Myanmar border towns known as hubs for Chinese-run scam networks.

Beijing can demonstrate similar leadership again. It has leverage over the Myanmar government as well as ethnic armed groups in Shan State that control the territories where gold and rare-earth mines are located. Most importantly, the Chinese government can put pressure on Chinese investors to comply with international environmental standards. This is an opportunity to show that rare-earth supply chains can be clean, ethical and sustainable.

Next week, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will visit China. Thais -- especially affected villagers -- expect Mr Anutin to discuss this issue with the Chinese government and seek greater cooperation with Myanmar. Needless to say, Thais also expect the Chinese government to show sincerity and genuine concern for affected communities, befitting the special relationship between China and Thailand. - Bangkok Post, 8/7/2026

Trump Calls and FIFA complies - when a RED CARD for US player only results on NO SUSPENSION of following match, as stated in FIFA'a Rules?

The global football body announced that it had suspended the red card — which had meant an automatic one-match ban — after United States President Donald Trump urged FIFA chief Gianni Infantino to review the case.

What does FIFA rules say about the RED CARD?

Article 66.4 of the code, which makes a one-match ban automatic after a player receives a red card. It also cited Article 10.5 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Competition Regulations, which states: “If a player or team official is sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card [second caution], they will automatically be suspended from their team’s subsequent match. In addition, further sanctions may be imposed.”

FIFA World Cup 2026 Circular No 16 also confirms a one-match automatic suspension following a red card.

IGNORING it's own Rules, FIFA justified using some other rule...???? 

### We recall how Malaysia's Home Moinister gave UMNO an EXEMPTION - that meant that even if it does not follow the LAW or the party's OWN RULES, it is OK. That decision allowed Zahid Hamidi to remain President > as no member could challenge him for Presidency after a party resolution was passed..  

SO FIFA's decision that allowed Balogun to play in the next match is UNACCEPTABLE. 

If FIFA had made a general decision, that all players who received a RED Card can also play in their subsequent match - We may be OK with it (But still it should have been made at the beginning and never mid-stream) > but then the NON-COMPLIANCE of Rules decision during in the middle of competition is questionable and should not happen. Would FIFA has decided the same if a President/Leader of some other 'smaller' country had done the same? I doubt it..

Watching FIFA games, I also sensed 'discrimination' in the treatment of the teams playing. When Egypt scored a goal, the goal was disallowed for a foul that happened earlier at the other end of the field. But, when one of the Argentina's goal also was questionable for the similar reason - there was not even a VAR review - if there was a similar foul that happened before the Argentina scored - would that GOAL also be disallowed. Was FIFA and its referees biased in favour of some 'big name' teams.

In Malaysia, we are used to such 'differential treatment' for perpetrators of crime - BUT such things should not happen in SPORTS, and of course in other areas of life. 

In Malaysia, NO news on investigation and prosecution of them Sabah politicians involved in some mining scandal. Was there investigation, is it ongoing, etc? Just no NEWS and it is important become several were charged in court - but NO NEWS about what is happening to the rest???

In Zahid Hamidi's case - the 'sudden discontinuation' > thus robbing the Court from deciding on his GUILT? 

LRT accidents kills and seriously injure so many > and NO CHARGES in Court - just a compound offers, if taken by the alleged criminal, ends investigation and no prosecution > and also protects Directors, Officers and others who COULD have been charged when the Company was charged, - Loke, again a 'COMPOUND offer' rather than CHARGE in COURT? Is the Minister 'pro-Business' rather than prioritising PUBLIC safety when they use PUBLIC Transport? A new 'PROTECTOR of CRIMINALS'? Have the VICTIMS yet to be compensated?

The government has declined to disclose stockholdings of former anti-graft agency chief Tan Sri Azam Baki, denying a backbencher request for the information. The information forms part of investigation documents, personal information and asset declarations protected under existing laws, according to Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Azalina Othman Said’s written parliamentary reply dated July 7. "Therefore, it is not a public document," she said. - Edge, 8/7/2026

See also earlier post:-  

FIFA - How US discriminated IRAN and others, and FIFA FAILED to act? Remove Gianni Infantino as President of FIFA? Withdraw Trump's FIFA Peace Price? An unnusual off-side rule?

PUBLIC Asset Declaration - a PUBLIC Monitoring mechanism to DETER corruption/abuse of powers/wrongful enrichment - 1st when come into power, and then when they are out of power - MINIMUM 2 needed.