What We Do in Malaysia
What We Do in Malaysia
UNHCR seeks long term solutions for refugees including finding hem new homes in third countries or helping them return home voluntarily when it is safe to do so.
While they are seeking temporary protection in Malaysia, UNHCR strives to create a safe and secure environment for them where their basic needs are met. UNHCR cooperates with its Government and civil society partners in humanitarian support for refugees including in education, healthcare and community support.
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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.
Registration of Refugees in Malaysia
Malaysia has adopted policies aimed at strengthening the national response to forced displacement, including through the introduction of the government-led refugee registration system, the Dokumen Pendaftaran Pelarian (DPP), launched in January 2026. These efforts reflect an important step towards a structured, predictable, and nationally owned approach to protecting people forced to flee their country.
As asylum procedures are being set up by the Government of Malaysia, UNHCR, in line with its international mandate and longstanding practice, supports efforts aimed at ensuring that refugees and asylum-seekers can access protection and have their protection needs identified and addressed, in full transparency with authorities. UNHCR works with partners and civil society organizations to better understand protection needs and vulnerabilities among refugees and asylum-seekers and to support appropriate responses.
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's work in Malaysia is complementary to and in support of the State’s protection and humanitarian responsibilities.
Looking Ahead: Towards a Comprehensive Asylum System
UNHCR looks forward to working closely with the Government of Malaysia towards establishing a national asylum framework. In relation to the DPP initiatives, UNHCR remains committed to supporting its implementation through technical advice, capacity sharing and cooperation, drawing on international standards and comparative practices.
As global displacement continues to rise, cooperation among the Government of Malaysia, United Nations agencies, civil society and international partners remain essential ensure protection for those fleeing persecution and conflict, while advancing practical and sustainable solutions.
