Malaysia denies inhumane treatment of Rohingya children

Malaysia's Home Ministry has firmly denied allegations of inhumane treatment towards migrant and refugee children, including those from the Rohingya ethnic group, within the country. Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that Malaysia has implemented various measures, such as establishing "Baitul Mahabbah" centers and refining the Child Alternative to Detention Initiative.

As of February 28, six Baitul Mahabbah centers were operational nationwide, housing 188 children, including seven unaccompanied minors. Saifuddin emphasized that accusations of children being held without proper care or basic welfare are inaccurate and do not reflect the government's responsible, humanitarian approach to irregular migration management.

These Baitul Mahabbah centers serve as transitional facilities, offering a more conducive environment for children aged 12 and under, along with their guardians, while their documentation and status are processed. The initiative aims to move children from regular immigration detention centers into safer, age-appropriate settings with access to basic needs, education, and recreation.

The government plans to gradually expand the scope and capacity of these centers to accommodate other age categories. Saifuddin also called for a more robust and responsible role from all parties, including origin countries, international organizations, and humanitarian activists, in finding sustainable solutions to migration issues.