Malaysia's Home Ministry has initiated the screening of Rohingya refugees as part of a broader effort to repatriate them to Myanmar. This process involves registering refugees under the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme, which began on January 1, 2026. The programme focuses on biometric data collection and early screening of Myanmar nationals of Rohingya ethnicity. As of June 2026, 78 individuals have been granted refugee status under this programme.
The DPP programme aims to create a systematic framework for managing refugees and asylum seekers in Malaysia. It involves a two-tier process: first, the Refugee Status Assessment Committee reviews interview findings and makes recommendations; then, the Refugee Status Determination Committee, as the highest authority, decides on the refugee status. Only individuals confirmed as refugees by the Refugee Registration Committee will be issued the Refugee Registration Document, allowing them to temporarily remain in Malaysia until a final resolution is carried out.
The Home Ministry has also been working on a mechanism to ensure that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and local authorities jointly screen applicants before issuing a refugee card. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan stated that Malaysia should reconsider the presence of UNHCR in the country if it refuses to implement a strict screening process for refugee card applicants.
The government has emphasized that the DPP programme does not provide refugees with a pathway to permanent residency. Participants are subject to repatriation, third-country resettlement, or deportation. The programme aims to address labour shortages while supporting the 13th Malaysia Plan’s target of capping foreign workers at 10% of Malaysia’s workforce.
The relocation and screening of refugees are ongoing processes. Authorities continue to monitor and manage the situation to ensure compliance with national laws and international obligations.