Malaysia’s Rohingya face new threat of removal as biometric documentation begins

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Ushar DanieleJanuary 22, 2026 at 09:51 AM

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Malaysia has begun a biometric registration scheme for Rohingya migrants held in detention centers, raising concerns among rights advocates about potential forced removals. The scheme, which began January 1st, aims to document detainees to determine who will be detained, deported, or eligible for resettlement in third countries. Tens of thousands of Rohingya, a persecuted Muslim minority from Myanmar, have sought refuge in Malaysia since the 1990s. As Malaysia doesn't formally recognize refugees, they face constant risk of detention and exploitation. The registration process coincides with Myanmar's defense against genocide allegations at the International Court of Justice related to the 2017 expulsion of over 730,000 Rohingya.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Bangladesh 30% The Hague 40% Home Ministry 40% International Court of Justice 50% UN ×260% Rakhine State 60% Myanmar ×270% Rohingya ×690% Malaysia ×590%

Keywords

rohingya 100% malaysia 90% refugees 80% deportation 70% biometric registration 70% detention centres 60% myanmar 50% human rights 50% refugee resettlement 40%