Children of undocumented migrants in detention centres to be moved into shelters, says Home Minister

The children of undocumented migrants who are being held at Immigration Department detention centres will be relocated to safer and more suitable shelters, according to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail. He announced on Monday (Sept 4) that there are currently 1,382 foreign children under the age of 18 in detention centres and they will gradually be moved to the new shelters over time.

Saifuddin stated that there are two categories of foreign children: those with guardians and those without. The children will be placed in shelters where they will be cared for by either their guardians or caretakers.

The goal is to remove all children from the detention centres and have them relocated to the shelters. They will remain there while their travel documents are prepared and until they can be deported to their respective countries. The shelters will be guarded round-the-clock by Rela to ensure the children’s safety and welfare, Saifuddin said during a press conference.

Baitul Mahabbah is the name of the first shelter, located near the KL International Airport in Sepang. It currently houses 23 foreign children and has the capacity to accommodate up to 80 children. The numbers will be increased gradually, according to Saifuddin.

Saifuddin expressed his gratitude to civil society groups and NGOs for supporting the government’s initiative. He mentioned that NGOs have contributed mattresses and other necessities for the children and will also volunteer their time to conduct reading and writing classes for them.

By moving the children to safer and more conducive shelters, the government aims to improve their living conditions during their time in Malaysia. This initiative is a collaborative effort between various government agencies, NGOs, and civil society groups.

The relocation process will ensure that the children are not only safe but also have access to basic necessities and educational activities, which will contribute to their overall well-being.

The government’s action is seen as a positive step towards addressing the welfare of undocumented migrant children and reducing the hardships they face while being detained.

It is hoped that other detention centres will also establish similar shelters for foreign children, ensuring that their rights are protected and their needs are met in a more compassionate manner.

Through this initiative, a more child-friendly approach is being adopted in handling the situation of undocumented migrant children, prioritizing their safety and well-being.