WE welcome the Human Resources Minister’s statement that a positive announcement with regard to employment for refugees can be expected soon (“Govt to decide on allowing refugees to work in Dec”, The Star, Nov 18; online at bit.ly/star_decision). We hope this really does happen.

There are many compelling reasons in favour of providing a legal and administrative framework for refugees in Malaysia. The economic benefits this will bring to the country are well documented. A recent Parliamentary briefing also highlighted the advantages. And further reasons for providing such a framework include that it will hugely help in our fight against terrorism, human trafficking and modern-day slavery.