A state assemblyman here has proposed the establishment of a formal coordination mechanism involving state agencies, local councils and federal authorities to address growing public concerns over settlements involving undocumented migrants and Rohingya asylum seekers in residential areas.
Speaking during the debate on the Penang Budget 2027 at the State Legislative Assembly today, A. Kumaresan (PH – Batu Uban) said residents frequently raise concerns related to overcrowding, cleanliness, use of public facilities as well as community safety in certain neighbourhoods.
He said among the areas often highlighted by residents are Flat Hamna, Bukit Jambul and Minden Heights, where complaints have centred on allegations of overcrowded residential units, environmental cleanliness and disturbances to the surrounding community.
While acknowledging that immigration matters, control of foreign nationals and refugee status fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, Kumaresan said state assemblymen often find themselves under pressure from residents demanding answers and action.
“Almost every day, I receive complaints through phone calls, WhatsApp messages and social media from residents who are concerned about the increasing presence of undocumented migrants and Rohingya asylum seekers in their neighbourhoods,” he said.
According to him, the issue creates challenges for elected representatives as residents tend to look to their local assemblymen first whenever problems arise, regardless of whether the matter falls under state or federal jurisdiction.
To improve coordination and response, Kumaresan suggested that the Penang government establish a formal mechanism involving the Immigration Department, Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Penang Island City Council (MBPP), Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and other relevant agencies.
He said such a platform could help address complaints relating to foreigner settlements, particularly in areas identified as experiencing overcrowding and breaches of housing regulations.
The Batu Uban assemblyman also proposed that the state government obtain regular reports from federal agencies on enforcement operations conducted in Penang, including the number of inspections, arrests involving undocumented migrants and subsequent actions taken.
“This will ensure that accurate information can be conveyed to elected representatives and local communities,” he said.
At the same time, Kumaresan stressed the need to distinguish between undocumented migrants, foreign workers with valid documents and Rohingya asylum seekers.
He said enforcement actions must be carried out based on the law and evidence, instead of nationality or a person’s background.
“Not all foreigners or asylum seekers commit offences. However, the rights of local residents to live in a safe, clean and orderly environment must also be protected,” he added.
Kumaresan said the state government could play a more proactive role as a coordinator between federal agencies, local authorities and elected representatives to ensure public complaints are addressed more effectively and harmoniously.
He emphasised that raising the matter was not intended to create negative sentiment towards any community, but to ensure residents’ concerns are addressed, laws are enforced fairly and social harmony continues to be preserved.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat