Myanmar Refugee Issue: Security, People's Interests Given Priority - Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- The government will ensure that efforts to address the issue of Myanmar refugees are carried out with the security and interests of Malaysians given priority, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

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

He said the government had also taken more structured measures to address the issue through enforcement, inter-agency coordination and cooperation with the countries of origin.

“The issue of Myanmar refugees is not a new problem, but rather a legacy spanning decades that has placed pressure on the country in terms of security, social affairs and management.

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

Anwar said that following discussions with Myanmar, it had been agreed that 5,000 refugees would be repatriated voluntarily and in stages, with 1,476 of them beginning the first phase today after undergoing the process agreed upon by both countries.

-- BERNAMA