PUTRAJAYA: The Home Ministry emphasised that the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) process is not a form of granting citizenship, permanent resident status, or the right to reside permanently in Malaysia.
It said on Thursday (June 11) that the DPP gives the government tighter control over migration and national security.
"The principle upheld by the government is clear. The security of the nation will never be compromised. At the same time, the issue of refugees must be managed in an orderly manner, based on the law, and taking into account the humanitarian realities that exist at the regional and international levels," according to the statement.
The ministry said that the DPP process is vital for an organised, responsible, and security-focused management of migration, prioritising the safety of the nation and the well-being of Malaysians.
According to the ministry, the DPP process in Peninsular Malaysia involving refugees and holders of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) cards being implemented by the Malaysian Immigration Department is guided by the National Security Council (NSC) Directive No. 23 (Review 2023).
The ministry explained that through this process, the government will obtain more detailed biometric data and identity information to enable the status, presence, and background of individuals to be identified more accurately.
"This data is very important in helping the government assess the implications of security, public health, economy, and social aspects more comprehensively.
"It also allows for the streamlining of standard operating procedures (SOP), migration policies, and enforcement measures related to refugees and UNHCR cardholders based on accurate and verifiable information," said the statement.
The ministry also said that Malaysia has been facing the presence of refugees and UNHCR cardholders for decades, but the government still does not have complete and comprehensive data regarding the actual number, identity, and background of the individuals involved.
“The situation cannot be allowed to continue because every decision and policy related to migration must be based on accurate, reliable data owned by the Malaysian government itself.”
"As an agency responsible for maintaining domestic security and managing national migration, the Home Ministry must ensure that every decision and policy implemented is based on accurate, authentic data owned by the Malaysian government itself," added the statement. - Bernama
