Myanmar Vows to Take Back Migrants From Malaysia ‘As Soon As Possible’

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Putrajaya: Myanmar's leader, Min Aung Hlaing, announced Thursday that Myanmar would return its nationals detained in Malaysian immigration detention centres ‘as soon as feasible,’ as the two countries press forward with a significant repatriation program.

Min Aung Hlaing, speaking with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya, stated that Myanmar will accept confirmed citizens and may deploy navy ships to expedite their return if weather conditions are favourable.

According to sources, Malaysia is currently seeking to repatriate approximately 5,000 Myanmar people. Nearly 1,500 people were already returned in late September aboard three Myanmar naval warships, including a hospital ship.

The United Nations and human rights organizations have criticized the plan, warning that returns may face persecution, forced military recruitment, or other rights violations as a result of Myanmar's ongoing conflict following the military coup in 2021.

The possible return of Rohingya refugees is of special concern. Malaysia has a sizable Rohingya refugee population, however Myanmar fails to accept most Rohingya as citizens.

Officials have not stated whether any Rohingya are included in the repatriation scheme. According to Reuters, Anwar stated that Malaysia will continue to work with Myanmar on repatriation, as well as pursue closer interaction and ultimate reintegration into ASEAN.