Malaysia has reaffirmed that it does not recognise travel documents issued by Israel for entry into the country, in line with its long-standing policy of not having diplomatic relations with the Israeli regime.
In a statement on Monday, the Home Ministry (KDN) said all foreign nationals seeking to enter Malaysia are subject to immigration screening, security checks and comprehensive risk assessments before entry is approved.
The ministry said individuals classified as prohibited immigrants under Section 8 of the Immigration Act 1959/1963 will not be allowed to enter Malaysia and may face action in accordance with the law.
It added that any individual deemed to pose a threat to national security, public order or Malaysia’s national interests will also be denied entry and may be subject to legal action under existing legislation.
“KDN, through the Immigration Department, continues to enforce all laws governing the entry of foreign nationals based on the Immigration Act 1959/1963, the Passport Act 1966, relevant immigration regulations and security assessments conducted by national security agencies,” the ministry said.
The ministry stressed that managing the country’s entry points goes beyond immigration procedures and forms part of Malaysia’s integrated national security framework.
It said the system is implemented in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the National Security Council (MKN), the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) and other enforcement agencies.
According to KDN, the approach reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that decisions on the entry of foreign nationals prioritise national security, sovereignty, public interest and compliance with Malaysian laws.
The ministry said it will continue strengthening border control through the use of technology, intelligence sharing, risk profiling and integrated enforcement to ensure Malaysia remains safe, sovereign and protected from security threats.
KDN added that it remains committed to implementing government policies professionally, transparently and with integrity to safeguard national security and public well-being.
Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed that Malaysia would continue barring Israeli citizens from entering the country despite criticism from eight US congressmen over the policy.
Anwar said Malaysia’s position is based on its commitment to defending human rights and opposing what he described as the continued oppression, aggression and killings of Palestinians in Gaza.
