UNHCR’s Role and Work in Malaysia

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to lead and coordinate international efforts to protect refugees and seek durable solutions to their plight. This mandate is exercised globally, in cooperation with Member States, including Malaysia, and in accordance with international refugee and human rights standards.

Around the world, situations of persecution, conflict and violence continue to force children, women and men to flee their homes, often exposing them to imminent risk to their lives, safety and dignity. In such situations, UNHCR works to ensure that those compelled to flee can access protection, have their essential needs met until longer-term solutions – such as safe return to a peaceful country or other options – are found. In Malaysia, UNHCR works with many agencies and organizations to support refugees alongside Malaysian communities.

UNHCR Registration of Refugees in Malaysia

Malaysia has adopted policies aimed at strengthening the national response to forced displacement, including through a government-led refugee registration system. These efforts reflect an important step towards a structured, predictable, and nationally owned approach to protecting people forced to flee their country.

As fair and accessible asylum procedures are being set up by the Government of Malaysia, UNHCR continues, in line with its international mandate and longstanding practice, to support the identification and registration of refugees and asylum-seekers in the country, in full transparency with authorities. Together with its partners and civil society in Malaysia, UNHCR identifies individuals who have had to flee persecution and conflict and assesses how their needs and vulnerabilities can be addressed.

Proper registration and documentation of all individuals seeking protection in Malaysia are key to accessing basic services such as health care. Registration and documentation also contribute to the authorities’ understanding of profiles and needs of refugees. UNHCR will continue to seek various solutions for refugees, including voluntary return home or pathways to other countries based on protection, education and employment considerations.

UNHCR's work in Malaysia is complementary and in support of the State’s protection and humanitarian responsibilities.

Looking Ahead: Towards a Comprehensive Asylum System

UNHCR welcomes the Government of Malaysia’s announced plans to conduct its own registration of refugees, commencing in January 2026, as well as broader efforts to establish a comprehensive asylum system. UNHCR remains committed to supporting this policy development through technical advice, capacity sharing, and cooperation, drawing on international standards and comparative practices.

As global displacement continues to rise, cooperation between the Government of Malaysia, United Nations agencies, civil society and international partners remains essential to ensure that those fleeing persecution and conflict are protected, while sustainable solutions are found.