'Myanmar refugees Asean's responsibility'

The issue of Myanmar refugees is a collective responsibility for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), according to Malaysia's Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. He emphasized that lasting stability in Myanmar is crucial to preventing the flow of people fleeing abroad. Hasan reiterated that Malaysia must manage this issue within the Asean framework and acknowledged it as a common concern among Asean leaders.

The consensus on addressing the political crisis in Myanmar, agreed upon on April 24, 2021, calls for cessation of violence, dialogue among all parties, an Asean special envoy to facilitate mediation, humanitarian assistance, and a visit by the special envoy to meet all parties concerned. Any proposed changes to the consensus would require Asean leaders' deliberation and approval.

Asean foreign ministers were instructed to assess the latest developments in Myanmar and recommend the next course of action during a recent retreat in Cebu, Philippines. Hasan stated that implementing the consensus would be feasible if Myanmar demonstrated sufficient political will, as the five points are not challenging—engaging with the parties, stopping violence, and engaging in conflict resolution.

He highlighted the importance of restoring security in Myanmar to prevent further refugee outflows and allow those who have fled to return safely. Regarding Malaysia's plan to repatriate 5,000 Myanmar refugees, Hasan noted that Myanmar expressed its readiness to receive them, but safety concerns must be addressed. The proposal is currently under examination by the Home Ministry, with Wisma Putra facilitating discussions between the two countries. The 5,000 refugees consist of various ethnic groups, not just Rohingya.