3,524 Myanmar nationals to be sent back in 2nd repatriation phase

Malaysia has announced the second phase of repatriating 3,524 Myanmar nationals in response to the issue of illegal residents from Myanmar. The first phase, which saw the return of 1,476 individuals, took place yesterday with the aid of three Myanmar naval vessels. The government spokesman, Fahmi Fadzil, stated that the identities of the repatriated individuals were confirmed by the Myanmar government and communicated via a diplomatic note on August 13.

The communications minister also revealed that Malaysia awaits further details on the repatriation schedule. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has pledged to continue dialogue with Myanmar to facilitate the return of additional nationals after the second group has been repatriated. The discussions aim to foster cooperation between the two nations while ensuring the repatriation process adheres to agreed-upon procedures.

As of August 15, a total of 10,388 Myanmar nationals held at immigration depots were under identity, immigration status, and security background checks. Out of these, 5,000 had been designated for the voluntary and phased repatriation programme. The Ministry of Home Affairs highlighted that this initiative is part of the government's ongoing efforts to resolve the long-standing issue of illegal Myanmar nationals residing in Malaysia.