Photo: illustration.

KUALA LUMPUR - The New Straits Times reported, a total of 20,143 undocumented immigrants were held in 18 regular and two temporary immigration depots nationwide by August 31.

The Home Ministry stated in a written reply to Parliament that the vast majority, 17,947 detainees (89%), are adults, and 2,196 (11%) are children.

"For children and female caretakers, a total of 273 individuals have been placed in six special Baitul Mahabbah facilities, which are more conducive and safe.

"This placement aims to ensure the safety, welfare and well-being of these vulnerable groups, in line with humanitarian principles and international standards such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child," the ministry stated.

This information was given in response to a query from Ahmad Tarmizi Sulaiman, Member of Parliament for Sik about the number and condition of adult and child detainees.

Regarding the depots' conditions, the ministry noted that Malaysia is not legally required to follow most international agreements on migration and refugee status.

"However, the management of undocumented immigrants in Malaysia is guided by universal human rights principles and widely recognised minimum standards.

"Although the Nelson Mandela Rules, the United Nations' Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, are not legally binding on Malaysia, the government adopts the principles in these rules as standards for the management of detainees in immigration depots,” the ministry added.

The main ideas of the Nelson Mandela Rules include treating detainees with respect and dignity, not discriminating, providing proper care, and offering suitable food, water, and living spaces.

The ministry is also open to letting non-governmental organizations visit the immigration depots to see the facilities and how detainees are treated, if the Immigration Department director-general approves their application.