Malaysia to ensure safety of Myanmar refugees before repatriation

Malaysia is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of Myanmar refugees before initiating their phased repatriation, according to Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. He emphasized that this approach is crucial to prevent Malaysia from being viewed as inhumane, particularly if refugees are sent back while their safety remains under threat.

To facilitate a safer return, the Malaysian government is considering discussions with Myanmar's authorities to establish a designated area within Rakhine state. This special zone would serve as a temporary settlement for the repatriated refugees. "It would be safer if a designated area was created within Rakhine itself for them to be brought back and reside in that area," Mohamad stated.

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It would be safer if a designated area was created within Rakhine itself for them to be brought back and reside in that area.

The repatriation process will proceed only after the status and safety levels of each refugee have been thoroughly assessed in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). "We need to ascertain their status. UNHCR, together with the Ministry of Home Affairs, must identify their situation and whether they will be endangered upon their return," the minister explained.

Malaysia is prepared to commence the repatriation process gradually. Mohamad has instructed the Secretary-General to liaunt with the Myanmar government through their embassy to arrange the return of refugees in an orderly fashion. He indicated that repatriation could begin once over 1,000 refugees have been identified, rather than waiting for a larger group. This follows a report that the Myanmar government expressed willingness to bring back 5,000 refugees by ship, a plan that requires careful consideration of the refugees' safety.

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We need to ascertain their status. UNHCR, together with the Ministry of Home Affairs, must identify their situation and whether they will be endangered upon their return.