Zaliha denies officiating groundbreaking ceremonies for Myanmar refugee settlements

Former federal territories minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa has vehemently denied claims that she participated in or officiated groundbreaking ceremonies for new settlements for Myanmar refugees. She emphatically stated that the allegations circulating on social media are baseless and malicious. Zaliha clarified that the circulated photograph is believed to have been taken at the Asean sustainable urbanisation forum, and emphasized that she does not know the individual in the photo or have any official or unofficial relationship with him.

The photo was taken during a special address she delivered at the Asean governors and mayors forum, which was later followed by the launch ceremony for the programme. Zaliha stressed that attending the event does not imply personal knowledge of every individual present. She vowed to report the matter to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) for further review and appropriate action.

Zaliha also dismissed claims that she supported or facilitated the resettlement of Myanmar refugees, asserting that these allegations contradict her record of implementing measures to address illegal settlements and structures. She reaffirmed her commitment to tackling illegal activities and unauthorized operations, urging all parties not to take isolated photos out of context to create false narratives.