Kuala lumpur: Preliminary data on Myanmar refugees identified through the Refugee Registration Document (DPP) programme is anticipated to be available in the fourth quarter of this year, according to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. The Home Ministry, through the Immigration Department, is spearheading the data collection process with relevant parties.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin emphasized that the initial data is expected to be ready by the fourth quarter. He mentioned that the Home Ministry is actively working to manage the refugee issue in an organized manner, in line with the National Security Council Directive No. 23 (Revision 2023). The DPP programme is designed to provide the government with accurate, complete, and verifiable biometric data and identity information on individuals categorized as refugees.

Saifuddin explained that individuals confirmed as refugees will be prioritized for repatriation, coordinated by Wisma Putra. He highlighted that legitimate refugees would be among the first groups to be repatriated. The data collection initiative aims to create an outreach mechanism to encourage refugees to participate in the process, ensuring the government obtains necessary information.

Furthermore, Saifuddin clarified that the refugee data collection encompasses not only Myanmar refugees but all identified refugees within the country. The initiative reflects the government's commitment to addressing the refugee situation systematically and efficiently.