Sik MP: Don't blame refugees, address atrocities in Myanmar

Malaysians should refrain from directing their anger at refugees while ignoring the violence and persecution that forces them to flee Myanmar, according to Sik member of parliament Ahmad Tarmizi Sulaiman. Tarmizi pointed out that conversations in the Dewan Rakyat and among the public often overlook the underlying causes of displacement in Myanmar.

He emphasized that when discussing refugees in Malaysia, people often forget that the real cause lies in the conflict, massacres, and genocide occurring in Myanmar. In a debate on the 2027 Budget in the Dewan Rakyat, Tarmizi mentioned that over 16 million people in Myanmar required humanitarian assistance, while more than 3.8 million had been displaced by the conflict.

He urged the government to take a firmer stance against Myanmar's military junta and address the atrocities driving people to leave their homes. Tarmizi lamented that people instead direct these problems at refugee groups in Malaysia. He stressed that all Malaysians should stand united in demanding that Myanmar's military junta stop the killings and oppression of its people.

To tackle the Myanmar and refugee issues, Tarmizi called for a deeper understanding of the situation and cautioned against losing sight of the issue, which could lead to xenophobia and unbridled hatred. On Palestine, Tarmizi suggested that Malaysia should complement its diplomatic efforts and humanitarian aid with stronger political and legal measures.

He expressed disappointment that solidarity with Palestine often ends with speeches, banners, and media statements and called for sustained political pressure and international cooperation.