Rohingya do not demand Malaysian citizenship

Rohingya refugees residing in Malaysia have voiced their desire to return to their homeland, Myanmar, but stressed that such a repatriation is contingent upon the restoration of their safety and citizenship rights. The community asserts that the prevailing insecurity in Myanmar and the current administration's reluctance to accept them are the primary obstacles to their return.

Zafar Ahmad Abdul Ghani, President of the Rohingya Human Rights Organisation Malaysia (MERHROM), articulated the community's persistent hope for repatriation. He stated that a return is only feasible if their safety is guaranteed and their fundamental rights, particularly citizenship, are reinstated by the Myanmar government.

The refugees' stance highlights the complex geopolitical and humanitarian challenges surrounding their displacement. While they express a longing for their homeland, the conditions necessary for a safe and dignified return remain unmet, leaving them in a state of prolonged uncertainty in Malaysia.

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We... always hope to return to our homeland, but repatriation can only happen if safety is guaranteed and their citizenship rights are restored.