The stories shaping Malaysia, in focus.
Malaysia's Foreign Minister has signalled the government may reassess the UN Refugee Agency's presence in the country unless it agrees to stricter joint screening procedures for refugee card applications.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has issued a firm stance against refugee groups occupying public areas or disrupting public order, signalling a stricter approach to refugee management.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has instructed police, immigration and local authorities to enforce strict action against refugees who breach Malaysian laws or disturb public order, following a Rohingya protest outside UNHCR offices.
Malaysia has instructed the UNHCR to pause refugee registrations while the government restructures its management system through a new Refugee Registration Document programme, Deputy Foreign Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni announced.
Malaysia will establish its own comprehensive mechanism to manage over 126,000 registered refugees without external reliance, focusing on welfare access, security enforcement, and coordinated government responsibility.
Malaysia's Economy Minister has clarified that UNHCR refugee cards do not constitute citizenship documents or provide legal immunity, as the government intensifies border security and refugee management efforts amid public concerns.
Malaysia is evaluating citizenship applications on a case-by-case basis, including for children born abroad to Malaysian mothers. The Home Ministry targets processing complete applications within one year and has established task forces to resolve documentation challenges.
Malaysia pledges to intensify collaboration with ASEAN and UNHCR on the Rohingya refugee crisis, emphasising regional responsibility-sharing and political solutions while acknowledging structural limitations.