PUTRAJAYA, June 15 (Bernama) - The government is implementing a more comprehensive process of collecting data and biometric information on individuals in the refugee category, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
He said the refugee issue is a legacy issue that has been going on for a long time, inherited across various administrations, and one of the biggest challenges faced so far is the lack of complete and accurate data.
"We cannot manage what we do not know. We cannot protect national security without knowing exactly who is within our country’s borders.
"Accurate data will enable the government to manage various issues that arise more effectively, whether from the perspective of security, law enforcement, public health, employment or the well-being of the local community,” he said in a Facebook post.
Saifuddin also stressed that refugee status is not a license to violate Malaysian law and any individual who commits a criminal offence or violates the country’s law will still face enforcement action and appropriate legal process.
In this regard, he welcomed the involvement of academics, civil society activists, think tanks, legal practitioners, security experts and any party with expertise and views to come forward to submit proposals to the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) regarding the issue of refugee management in Malaysia.
According to him, the MADANI Government chose to manage the issue responsibly, prudently and based on facts by ensuring the safety of the people and the country continues to be preserved.
"What we are doing is ensuring that the government has a better ability to manage a reality that has existed in the country for a long time. The goal is not to protect refugees, but to protect the interests of the country, the security of the people and public order.
"I believe that Malaysians are capable of discussing this issue maturely, rationally and responsibly for the sake of the country that we love together,” he explained. - BERNAMA