Not Impossible for Rohingya to Have Their Own Party in 20 Years

PETALING JAYA: It is not impossible for the Rohingya community or other refugees to have their own political party in Malaysia within the next 20 to 30 years.

MCA Youth Information Chief, Neow Choo Seong, said such a development could occur if individuals from these communities obtain citizenship and meet the requirements to participate in politics.

According to him, the establishment of any organisation in Malaysia is subject to the approval of the Registrar of Societies (ROS) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN).

“In the context of the Federal Constitution, it does not state that one cannot establish any association, political organisation or NGO.

“That authority lies with the minister. Thus, it is up to the discretion and consideration of the minister or the Malaysian government to approve each organisation’s application,” he said when appearing on the Sebalik Kalam Podcast.

Choo Seong said the development of immigrant communities in a country could also lead to the establishment of political organisations representing the interests of their diaspora.

He cited the example of the Turkish community in Germany, which he said has a political party and significant influence in that country.

“If we look at Germany, there is a Turkish political party that was established and has grown rapidly, representing the diaspora of the Turkish community in Germany.

“They came seeking refuge and a better life, then eventually established (as a political organisation) and now have influence,” he said.

Commenting on the possibility of the same thing happening in Malaysia, Choo Seong said he does not rule out the possibility that communities such as the Rohingya could have political influence in the future.

“I do not rule out the possibility that in 20 years, 30 years, such a (political party) could exist.

“If we look, there were indeed Bangladeshi nationals who wanted to contest in the last General Election (GE). Although we may think it’s a joke, it is not impossible.

“In the principle of democracy, it does not say as long as you are eligible, you are a citizen. Perhaps he has already obtained citizenship. We do not know,” he said.

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