THE REFUGEE EXPERIENCE IN MALAYSIA
Who Is a Refugee?
A refugee is someone who has been displaced or who has chosen to flee their homeland, often due to civil unrest, armed conflict, racial or religious persecution, or forced expulsion by the state or hostile groups. These individuals seek safety, stability, and the hope of rebuilding their lives in a new place.
- ASYLUM SEEKERS AND REFUGEES
From Asylum Seekers to Refugees
Displaced persons arriving in Malaysia typically begin as asylum seekers, registering with the UNHCR as persons of concern. Through a rigorous Refugee Status Determination (RSD) process—lasting 2 to 4 years—they may be officially recognized as refugees. Even then, resettlement to a third country can take an additional 3 to 5 years or more. Not all applicants pass the RSD; rejected cases may appeal once. If the appeal is denied, UNHCR protection is withdrawn and they are usually advised to return to their country of origin.
- UNDOCUMENTED AND ILLEGAL
Legal Challenges and Vulnerability
Malaysian law classifies asylum seekers and refugees as undocumented migrants, making them liable to prosecution, detention, and deportation—even those holding UNHCR cards or persons-of-concern papers. By law, they are not allowed to work, while access to education and healthcare is either denied or restricted by high costs. These harsh realities place refugees and undocumented migrants among the most vulnerable communities in the country.