Malaysia says Myanmar refugee return will not go ahead if lives are at risk

Malaysia has stated it will not proceed with the repatriation of 5,000 Myanmar refugees if their safety is compromised upon return. A government spokesman confirmed on Wednesday that authorities are screening the refugees ahead of the planned handover, emphasizing the country's commitment to responsible action.

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Malaysia, as a responsible country, will not return the 5,000 Myanmar refugees if they would either be persecuted or their lives would be threatened.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim previously indicated that the refugees targeted for repatriation are ethnic Rohingya. This decision comes amidst growing tensions between the Rohingya community and local Malaysian populations. The situation has led to the closure of Rohingya refugee schools and reports of harassment and threats against Rohingya children. Some refugees have also faced eviction and brief detention.

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There are several matters that will be studied and discussed with the Myanmar government before the government implements (the plan).

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, who also serves as the government spokesperson, detailed the review process involving the foreign and home ministries. He reiterated that Malaysia, as a responsible nation, will not return refugees if they face persecution or threats to their lives. Discussions with the Myanmar government are ongoing to establish clear criteria for the repatriation.

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The Prime Minister has taken note that we cannot send them back if their lives are threatened. So there are several matters currently being studied by the Foreign Ministry.

Human Rights Watch has strongly urged Malaysia to reconsider its decision. The organization highlighted that these refugees are targets of brutality by the Myanmar junta and face significant persecution and rights abuses. Bryony Lau, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch, called on Malaysia to demonstrate regional leadership by protecting these vulnerable individuals rather than forcibly returning them.

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The Malaysian government should show regional leadership in responding to the crisis in Myanmar rather than forcibly returning people who are the targets of the junta's brutality.