Perlis immigration dept sets up task force to track Rohingya immigrants

PETALING JAYA: The Perlis immigration department has set up a special task force to monitor, track and verify records of the Rohingya community in the state.

Perlis immigration director A’sim Ali said the task force was formed to obtain a clearer picture of the Rohingya community and strengthen enforcement through a targeted approach.

“This issue must be handled professionally, prudently, and based on verified facts and data. Any enforcement action will be carried out in accordance with the Immigration Act 1959/63 and directives in force,” Bernama reported him as saying today.

On June 19, the media reported that local residents were concerned about the apparent increase in the number of Rohingya refugees in several parts of Perlis.

A’sim said initial checks found that most of those identified in communities across the state possess registration cards issued by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

He said the department regularly received information and complaints from the public regarding foreigners, including Rohingya, in several locations in Perlis.

Each complaint would be thoroughly investigated and assessed before any enforcement action was taken.

“Complaints received typically involve reports of undocumented foreigners, employment activities, settlements, and unauthorised business operations,” he said.

A’sim also said checks found that 39 Rohingya individuals handed over to the Perlis immigration department by other agencies did not possess valid travel documents.