Fahmi: Malaysia first country to secure Myanmar’s acceptance of returning refugees

Putrajaya — Malaysia has become the world's first nation to persuade Myanmar to accept the return of its refugees, according to Madani Government spokesperson Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim hailed the diplomatic triumph, underscoring it as a remarkable feat. "This is an extraordinary achievement because, as the Prime Minister pointed out, Malaysia is the first country in the world to have successfully convinced a country like Myanmar to accept the return of its refugees," Fahmi said at the ministry's monthly assembly.

Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing's visit on October 7 and 8 facilitated these discussions, potentially leading to the repatriation of more than 3,000 refugees from diverse ethnic groups. Fahmi urged media outlets to closely monitor these developments, highlighting the initiative as part of Malaysia's ongoing diplomatic efforts.

The first phase of repatriation involved 1,476 Myanmar nationals via three vessels, including a Myanmar navy hospital ship. Fahmi also mentioned other foreign visits and initiatives, including meetings with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II, as well as the Global Sumud initiative supporting Palestinians.