☏ - 012 630 5060 (8:00 AM to 11:00 PM) (English & Bahasa Malaysia only)
Stopped / Arrested by Police
- Stay calm and be co-operative.
- Ask police why you are arrested.
- Show the police your UNHCR document.
- Tell the police your UNHCR reference number.
- Memorize your UNHCR Number!
- Tell the police to call 012-6305060 to verify.
- Alert UNHCR, family member or friend as soon as possible with the following
information: - UNHCR Reference Number.
- Place of arrest.
- Taken to which police station.
After Arrest / In Detention
- You will be questioned and asked to give statement.
- Information that you give to the police can be used as evidence in court if you are charged.
- If police wish to detain you for more than 14 days, they must get permission from a magistrate.
- The police may release you; charge you in court or send you to Immigration Detention Centre.
- Do NOT nod or shake your head at ANY point under any circumstances.
- If you do not understand what is being said, ask for interpreter.
In Magistrate’s Court
- Inform UNHCR that you are facing court charges. If unable to contact UNHCR or family/friend, ask magistrate for permission to contact UNHCR.
- Ask for a lawyer or for assistance from Legal Aid Centre.
- Ask for an interpreter if you do not understand Bahasa Malaysia.
- Inform the magistrate that you are a person of concern to UNHCR.
- Tell magistrate your circumstances - for example, family responsibility, financial situation, health condition, etc.
- The magistrate’s role is to protect your rights.
- Do not plead guilty if you are charged under Section 6(1)( c ) of the Immigration Act / “Kes Kosong”.
- When in court, ask for your court case number and if possible, a copy of the charge sheet.
- The sentencing might include imprisonment, fine and/or whipping. If you are sentenced, ask for the minimum sentence and NO whipping.
- Do NOT nod or shake your head at any point under any circumstances. If you do not understand what is being said, ask for interpreter.
- Keep asking / saying “UNHCR”.
VERY IMPORTANT
- You are expected to fully respect Malaysian laws during your stay in Malaysia regardless of your status with UNHCR.
- Always carry your original UNHCR document and leave a copy with someone you trust.
