Rights groups question need for curbs on Rohingya

Human rights groups have raised concerns over proposals to impose movement restrictions on Rohingya refugees in Malaysia. The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia, known as Suhakam, questioned the justification for such curbs, citing a lack of credible evidence that Rohingya refugees pose a threat to national security. Suhakam chairman Hishamudin Yunus highlighted that the Inspector-General of Police stated in June that Rohingya accounted for just 0.02% of Malaysia's overall crime rate.

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi acknowledged the government was studying the possibility of restricting Rohingya movements, but emphasized that any such measures must be evidence-based, necessary, and proportionate to Malaysian constitutional and human rights obligations. Critics argue that strict controls could hinder refugees' access to essential services, family ties, legal assistance, education, and healthcare.

Hishamudin emphasized that any restrictions must not violate refugees' rights to life, personal liberty, freedom from forced labor, and freedom of religion. Tenaganita's Glorene Das added that there is no evidence linking restricting Rohingya movement to addressing national security concerns, and called for evidence, necessity, and accountability before such policies are considered.

She stressed the importance of upholding non-discrimination principles and avoiding policies based on fear or negative perceptions.