Why Are We Portraying Refugees as a Security Threat?

Refugees in Malaysia are only recognised as such through their UNHCR cards, as Malaysia’s law does not make any distinctions between refugees and undocumented migrants. However, the Malaysian government recently introduced the Tracking Refugees Information System - also known as TRIS - for all UNHCR card holders, to identify their whereabouts in the country. This move has raised concerns among refugee rights groups and activists about its necessity and implementation. We speak to Tham Hui Ying, Executive Director of Asylum Access Malaysia to discuss the ramifications of this move, and where it stands amidst increasing securitisation of refugees globally. 

Image credit: Shutterstock / Gaie Uchel