Refugees recognised by the United Nation High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) will be issued identity cards, according to the Home Ministry.

"The ID would allow them to stay in the country temporarily and avoid arrest by immigrations officers," ministry secretary-general Mahmood Adam told Malaysiakini .

malaysia worst refugees place 180609 01 It was reported that although the refugees will be issued ID cards, they are not allowed to engage in full time employment.

Mahmood said that the mechanism for the issuance of the ID has not been finalised.

"We are working closely with UNHCR to come out with the best methods in terms of implementation," he added.

UNHCR press officer Yante Ismail said the agency is pleased with the government's move to issue ID for these refugees.

"Proper documentation is essential for their protection," she said.

She said UNHCR is looking forward to further discussions with the Home Ministry to put into place with them a documentation system for refugees.

Gov't moving in right direction

Meanwhile, Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram) said the government is moving towards the right direction with the plan to issue ID cards to refugees.

                    

"We view this as a positive development towards the recognition of the right to seek asylum as enshrined in article 14 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights," said Suaram coordinator Temme Lee in a press release.

Nevertheless, she urged the government to allow refugees access to full time employment and earn a living while they are in Malaysia.

"The more than 75,000 refugees and asylum seekers currently registered with UNHCR is an existing source of labour.

"Instead of importing more migrant workers, the government should first exhaust existing sources of labour in the country," she added.