Myanmar Refugee Issue: Security, Interests of Malaysians to Be Prioritised – PM

KUALA LUMPUR: The government will ensure that efforts to address the Myanmar refugee issue prioritise the security and interests of Malaysians, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said the commitment would serve as the basis for the government’s efforts to comprehensively address the issue, including through cooperation with Myanmar for the voluntary and phased repatriation of refugees.

Anwar said the government was also taking a more structured approach to the issue through enforcement, inter-agency coordination and cooperation with the country of origin.

“Insya-Allah, I will ensure that this issue is addressed comprehensively, with the security and interests of Malaysians given priority, while its implementation will be guided by the law and humanitarian values,” he said in a Facebook post on Tuesday.

He said that following discussions with Myanmar, 5,000 refugees would be voluntarily repatriated in phases, with 1,476 of them beginning the first phase on Tuesday after undergoing a process agreed upon by both countries.

Sinar Harian