Balanced Refugee Policy Needed To Address Security, Humanitarian Concerns - Amirudin

GOMBAK, Aug 30 (Bernama) -- A clear and comprehensive policy on refugee issues needs to be established to ensure that national security concerns are balanced with humanitarian considerations, said Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.

He said such a policy was important to prevent any action on refugee issues from being taken drastically or based on emotions, particularly following the increase in the number of refugees in the country, which has also placed certain pressures on society and the government.

“The calls being made now need to be carefully considered because we do not want to merely provide protection; we are also burdened by the large number of refugees. However, we need a clear policy and a balance with humanitarian considerations,” he said.

He said this when met by reporters after attending the National Aspirations with Youth (NANBA) for the Central Zone Series 2/2026 here today.

Amirudin said this when commenting on the issue of Rohingya refugees, which has recently gone viral on social media, particularly involving areas around Selayang.

He, however, clarified that some of the locations featured on social media are under the administration of the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur and not within Selangor’s administrative jurisdiction.

He said any action taken solely based on emotions without being guided by a balanced policy could tarnish Malaysia’s image internationally.

“Does the government want to close its doors to everyone? Would that mean refugees from around the world, including Syrian refugees and refugees from Gaza, would also not be allowed? So we cannot simply act based on the feelings or mood of certain people and end up being cruel,” he said.

Amirudin added that the authorities remained firm in taking action against any violations of the law committed by refugees or foreigners, including running businesses without licences and illegally occupying residential premises.

“Those involved in crime will certainly face action. They cannot be involved in activities such as owning businesses; that is clear, and we will take action... If there are cases of illegal occupation of residential premises, we will take action,” he said.

-- BERNAMA