Home minister: Government resolving persistent refugee problem according to rule of law

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 29 - The Malaysian government, led by the Madani administration, is determined to resolve the long-standing issue of foreign refugee presence in the country, strictly adhering to the Constitution and the rule of law, according to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

A total of 5,000 Myanmar refugees have been selected for a voluntary and staged repatriation program back to their home country, contingent on Myanmar's acceptance and the individuals' voluntary consent to return. The repatriation process, coordinated by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Malaysian Immigration Department, and related agencies, commenced today with the first phase involving 1,476 individuals, as confirmed by the list submitted by Myanmar through an official Diplomatic Note.

Saifuddin emphasized that the issue of foreign refugees, particularly from Myanmar, has been an ongoing problem for decades, causing substantial financial strain, social crises, and security threats. He stressed that international disputes necessitate cooperation from the country of origin for a proper resolution, which is why Malaysia is employing a diplomatic and phased approach.

Despite not being a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, Malaysia is committed to resolving the issue with compassion, ASEAN values, and in a responsible manner, all while safeguarding national security and sovereignty.

Today's repatriation involved 1,476 Myanmar refugees - comprising 1,370 men, 79 women, and 27 children - who were transported by the UMS Moattama, UMS King Sin Phyu Shin, and UMS Thanlwin, escorted by the Royal Malaysian Navy. Saifuddin reiterated that this marks the beginning of a resolution process for a long-standing issue, with future phases to follow once necessary identification, documentation, and operational readiness processes are completed.