KINIGUIDE | Debunking myths, misconceptions about refugees

KINIGUIDE | Malaysia is host to over 182,000 refugees and asylum seekers from 50 countries including Myanmar, Syria, Afghanistan, and Iran.

Despite the significant number of refugees in the country, Malaysia is not a signatory to the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees or the 1967 protocol related to the convention. This makes all refugees and asylum seekers “illegal immigrants” under immigration laws.

The plight of refugees puts successive Malaysian governments under criticism from local and international human rights groups, pushing for a long-awaited recognition of refugees in the country.

Last May, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi hinted at...