Jangan wariskan krisis pelarian kepada kerajaan, generasi akan datang, kata Lim

Malaysia has commenced the first phase of a program to repatriate approximately 1,500 Myanmar refugees, representing part of the roughly 5,000 individuals who have agreed to return voluntarily. Petaling Jaya: To address the long-standing Myanmar refugee crisis, Malaysia needs to find a lasting solution to prevent the issue from being inherited by future administrations and generations, said Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng.

The DAP MP supports Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's efforts to engage with Myanmar in search of a solution. "A decades-long issue requires action," he emphasized in a statement, stressing the need for long-term solutions to avoid future problems for governance and future generations. "Our children should inherit the achievements of our leadership, not the consequences of our procrastination."

Lim advocated for Anwar's insistence that any repatriation program must safeguard the safety and dignity of refugees, providing clear protection to ensure diplomatic commitments translate into effective protection. According to UNHCR data as of late February, around 215,600 registered refugees and asylum-seekers are in Malaysia, with 193,800 of them originating from Myanmar.

This number highlights Malaysia's significant responsibility in handling the crisis, and the country needs meaningful support from the international community. Lim also referenced advanced approaches by other advanced nations, including the UK-France "one-in, one-out" agreement introduced last August, which involves the repatriation of specific incoming migrants via a French ferry, while safe sea access to Britain is provided as an alternative.

Lim cited Germany's support for voluntary repatriation to Syria, including providing counseling services to help them understand the situation and prepare for their return. On the same day, Malaysia started its first phase of the repatriation program for around 1,500 Myanmar refugees, part of the planned 5,000 who have agreed to return voluntarily.