Why has Malaysia changed its refugee policy?

Pakoi (July 30) The Malaysian government has stated that refugees are not allowed to stay in the country indefinitely, and that they have the option to resettle in a third country or return to their home country when stability returns. Furthermore, government officials have called on the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to temporarily suspend the registration of new refugees and to reconsider the existence of its office. Pakoi of Mizzima contacted and interviewed Salai James Bawi Thang Bik, who has lived in Malaysia for over 15 years and is currently the chairman of the Alliance of Chin Refugees (ACR), to discuss why the refugee policy has changed, the role of UNHCR, and the potential consequences for Myanmar nationals in Malaysia. Interviewed by: Pakoi Edited by: Min Zin