The Malaysian Prime Minister’s trip highlights urgent humanitarian needs as Pakistan seeks to bring home its nationals imprisoned abroad

In a significant diplomatic event, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Pakistan is poised to address the pressing humanitarian issue of prisoner transfers. The anticipated signing of a prisoner transfer agreement (PTA) would allow Pakistani nationals incarcerated in Malaysia to serve the remainder of their sentences back home, in proximity to their families and communities. This agreement stands as a fundamental step in protecting the rights and dignity of vulnerable Pakistani citizens facing harsh conditions abroad.

As of September 2024, the number of Pakistani prisoners in Malaysia has surged to 463, a staggering 55 per cent increase since February’s figure of 299. The situation has deteriorated dramatically since September 2022, when the count was much lower. This alarming rise is not merely numerical; it represents lives disrupted and families torn apart, underscoring the urgent need for action and diplomatic intervention.

Pakistani nationals in Malaysia find themselves grappling with a variety of charges, ranging from immigration violations to more serious crimes under strict laws such as the Dangerous Drugs Act. Many endure severe penalties exacerbated by inadequate legal representation, language barriers, and limited consular support. This predicament calls for a swift and concerted effort from the Pakistani government to secure a PTA with Malaysia, drawing inspiration from successful agreements made by neighbouring countries like Iran.

The surge in prisoner numbers accentuates the necessity for systemic solutions. As international labour migration becomes a vital contributor to Pakistan’s economy—over 85,000 Pakistanis in Malaysia sent back $71 million in remittances in 2024 alone—ensuring the protection of citizens abroad is paramount. Yet, these migrant workers often find themselves at a disadvantage within Malaysia’s stringent immigration framework, leading to extended detentions and severe sentences.

A PTA would enable these individuals to serve their sentences in a familiar environment, affording them access to support networks, family visits, and culturally appropriate legal assistance. The absence of such an agreement leaves many isolated, struggling with legal challenges while enduring the emotional toll of separation from their loved ones.

In recent years, Pakistan and Malaysia have bolstered their commercial ties through enhanced trade and migration. As this partnership flourishes, it is essential that both nations establish adequate protections for their citizens. The increasing number of Pakistanis migrating to Malaysia signifies that more may encounter legal troubles abroad, and without a PTA, they risk ongoing detentions within foreign legal systems.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is known for his empathy towards human rights, making his visit an opportune moment to spotlight this humanitarian issue during diplomatic talks. His recent leadership in signing a PTA with Iran in 2024 serves as a model that Pakistan could emulate. Malaysia’s ongoing engagement with various countries illustrates a growing international acknowledgement of the importance of such agreements. Since 2020, Malaysia has signed PTAs with nations like Ukraine and Brunei, facilitating prisoner transfers while strengthening diplomatic and consular relations. Given the rapidly increasing Pakistani population in Malaysia, Pakistan should strive to become the next country to formalise a similar agreement.

In light of this critical situation, the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) of Pakistan is taking proactive steps to tackle the issue. The commission is collaborating closely with SUHAKAM, Malaysia’s National Human Rights Institution, to collect comprehensive data on Pakistani prisoners in Malaysia. This partnership will provide vital insights that might otherwise be challenging to acquire. Additionally, the NCHR is working alongside the Pakistan High Commission in Malaysia, which has played a pivotal role in data-sharing and support for these efforts.

The collaboration between the NCHR and SUHAKAM promotes a deeper understanding of the situation and fortifies diplomatic ties between the two nations. By joining forces, both entities can ensure that the rights of Pakistani prisoners are upheld, and their cases are managed with the necessary care and attention.

The upcoming state visit of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim presents a unique opportunity to confront this pressing issue. His commitment to human rights makes him an ideal ally for Pakistan. The ongoing collaboration between NCHR and SUHAKAM lays a strong foundation for PTA discussions, signifying both countries’ dedication to addressing this humanitarian concern.

It is time for Pakistan and Malaysia to formalise a PTA. This agreement is not merely a diplomatic necessity; it is a moral obligation. The NCHR stands ready to support the Pakistani government in this endeavour, leveraging its partnership with SUHAKAM and the Pakistan High Commission to safeguard the rights of Pakistani nationals abroad.