DAP MP backs Anwar’s efforts to resolve ‘Myanmar refugee crisis’

Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng has lent his backing to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's initiatives aimed at finding a lasting resolution to the Myanmar refugee crisis in Malaysia. With approximately 215,600 refugees registered with the UNHCR as of February, 193,800, or nearly 90%, are originally from Myanmar. Lim emphasized the importance of negotiating with Myanmar to urge the country to shoulder its responsibility and guarantee the protection of repatriated refugees.

Lim stressed that any return of refugees must prioritize their safety and dignity, with clear safeguards to transform diplomatic commitments into tangible protection measures. He highlighted that the crisis, which has persisted for decades, demands immediate action, as leaving it unresolved is not a viable long-term solution. Lim pointed out that countries such as Germany support the voluntary return of Syrian refugees while providing counseling services for prospective returnees.

The UK and France also implemented an initiative in August 2025, allowing small-boat arrivals in France to obtain a legal admission route to the UK.

Lim cited these examples to underscore the significance of international cooperation and practical assistance in addressing displacement and migration issues. Malaysia launched its first phase of a repatriation program yesterday, involving around 5,000 Myanmar refugees, with approximately 1,476 being sent back aboard three Myanmar naval vessels.

Anwar defended this initiative, despite facing criticism from civil society, by asserting that Malaysia cannot be expected to host hundreds of thousands of refugees indefinitely without engaging Myanmar authorities on a solution. He further emphasized that Malaysia seeks to ensure the well-being of the refugees once Myanmar agrees to receive them back.