Malaysia says it will not deport Rohingya if there are risks to their safety

Published Aug 6, 02:37 AM UTC

Malaysia's government announced it will not proceed with the planned repatriation of approximately 5,000 Rohingya refugees if their safety is threatened upon return. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed Myanmar agreed to accept the group, currently held in immigration detention. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil stated that Malaysia, as a responsible country, will not return refugees facing persecution or threats. The plan follows a surge in xenophobic rhetoric and public hostility toward Rohingya in Malaysia, including school closures and detentions. Around 126,000 Rohingya are registered with UNHCR in Malaysia, but the country does not recognize them as refugees and has tightened immigration enforcement. Human Rights Watch urged Malaysia to suspend repatriation, citing unsafe conditions in Myanmar, where the military junta and Arakan Army pose risks. Third-country resettlement has become more difficult due to U.S. restrictions, making repatriation the likely solution despite concerns.