Malaysia
Malaysia
In Malaysia, UNHCR leads refugee protection and registration while working to expand inclusion and self-reliance in the absence of a legal framework.
Are you a refugee, asylum-seeker or stateless person looking for help? Visit the HELP site to find support and services from UNHCR.
Malaysia hosts over 180,000 refugees and asylum-seekers, the vast majority from Myanmar – including a large Rohingya population – with others from more than 50 countries. Most live in urban areas across Peninsular Malaysia, notably in Klang Valley, Johor, and Penang.
In the absence of a legal framework for refugee protection, UNHCR leads all aspects of registration, documentation, and status determination. The organization also works with the Government of Malaysia to strengthen the protection environment and develop a more inclusive refugee policy aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Compact on Refugees.
Together with partners – including civil society, the private sector, and refugee communities – UNHCR advocates for greater self-reliance by promoting access to legal work, education, healthcare, and social protection.
Population and financial overview
Malaysia
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