UNHCR strives to ensure protection for refugees in Malaysia in several ways.

Malaysia has not ratified the 1951 Refugee Convention, and there are no legislative or administrative provisions dealing with the right to seek asylum or the protection of refugees. In countries that have not ratified the 1951 Refugee Convention, UNHCR has been mandated to carry out refugee status determination. In Malaysia, UNHCR is therefore solely responsible for the reception, registration, documentation and status determination of asylum-seekers and refugees.

In Malaysia, in the absence of specific protection framework for refugees, refugees are formally penalized for illegal entry and may be subject to arrest, prosecution, detention, caning and deportation. UNHCR Malaysia has set in place a Hotline service for refugees and Malaysian authorities functionning seven day a week. Refugees can call the hotline to inform of security risks they face and Malaysian authorities can call to verify the authenticity of UNHCR documents.

UNHCR works with a number of retainer law firms partners and the Malaysia Bar Council to ensure legal representation for its persons of concern. UNHCR always welcomes volunteer lawyers who provide pro bono services to refugees.

In the field of refugee advocacy, UNHCR promotes the legal protection of refugees and durable solutions through a number of initiatives, including Training workshops for Malaysian Officials as well as public events to inform the general public.

UNHCR also works closely with Malaysian civil society groups to promote policy and legislative change to effect improvements in the overall treatment of asylum-seekers and refugees.