The UN agency had earlier classified Arif Komis, a school teacher in Kuala Lumpur, as a “person of concern” who could be harmed if he was forcibly returned to his home country.
“Seeking asylum is a basic human right and forced return of refugees and asylum-seekers back to the country of origin is prohibited under international customary law,” said UNHCR spokesman in Kuala Lumpur, Yante Ismail.
Yante however refused to elaborate further on Komis’ deportation, saying UNHCR does not discuss details of individual cases.
But she said the global body was following reports on Komis “with concern”.
Putrajaya has come under fire from rights activists for deporting the 43-year old father of four.
Dr Mahathir Mohamad defended the move, saying police have proof that Komis was linked to the Gulen movement, which Ankara labels a “terrorist organisation”.