Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing visits Malaysia amid criticism over repatriation of nationals

Malaysia has repatriated nearly 1,500 Myanmar nationals to Myanmar ahead of a visit by Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing to Kuala Lumpur. This move comes amid efforts by other ASEAN countries to mend ties with Naypyidaw. The repatriation has drawn criticism from human rights groups and the UN refugee agency, as it has raised concerns about whether such normalisation could undermine efforts to end Myanmar's civil war.

Nearly 5,000 Myanmar nationals are slated for phased repatriation from Malaysia, where over 10,300 others remain in immigration detention centers. The repatriation coincided with preparations in Kuala Lumpur to host Min Aung Hlaing, who would be among several foreign leaders visiting Malaysia in October. Malaysia's government maintains that continued engagement is necessary to resolve long-standing issues but also acknowledges the need to ensure the safety of the returnees.

Human rights groups warn that the repatriation could set a worrying precedent if it becomes part of wider talks with Myanmar.