By: Camp Correspondent
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – February 16, 2025
The Malaysian government is considering a significant policy shift that would grant legal work rights to refugees recognized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), including Rohingya. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Zaliha Mustafa, stated that this initiative aligns with Directive No. 23 recently introduced by Malaysia’s National Security Council, which outlines new measures for managing refugees and asylum seekers.
According to local reports, the move is part of a broader effort by the government to provide social assistance in collaboration with UNHCR. Malaysian news outlet Weirdkaya noted that authorities are currently assessing labor shortages in various sectors before finalizing the policy.
“Refugees and asylum seekers must be registered with the Malaysian government before a final decision is made,” Minister Zaliha emphasized.
While Malaysia is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention or the 1967 Protocol, it has continued to offer humanitarian support to displaced communities, including Rohingya refugees from Myanmar. Under current national laws, refugees are only granted temporary stay permits. However, Minister Zaliha stressed that the long-term vision remains focused on either resettlement in a third country or voluntary return to their home country when conditions improve.
Meanwhile, hundreds of Rohingya refugees continue to seek safety across Southeast Asia. On January 29, 2025, a group of Rohingya arrived on the shores of Aceh, Indonesia, further highlighting the ongoing displacement crisis.
If implemented, Malaysia’s decision could mark a transformative step in its refugee policies, potentially improving the livelihoods of thousands of displaced individuals. However, challenges such as adapting legal frameworks and addressing public sentiment about integrating refugees into the workforce remain. As the government completes its review, the outcome of this policy is expected to have far-reaching implications for refugee rights both in Malaysia and throughout the region.
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