Addressing the issue of illegal Rohingya migrants in Malaysia requires a coordinated effort involving multiple enforcement agencies and the countries concerned, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said.
He stressed that the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is the final layer in the chain of enforcement, noting that the entry of Rohingya migrants into the country begins through maritime routes monitored by other agencies.
“The first layer involves security control by the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency. The police only come into the picture later, particularly from the security aspect when criminal offences are committed,” he said.
Ayob Khan said tackling the issue effectively requires cooperation from all stakeholders, as the migration route involves multiple layers of enforcement and jurisdiction.
Citing data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), he said Malaysia recorded 219,472 refugee card holders as of April, of which 128,200 were Rohingyas.
On allegations of illegal foreigner settlements frequently highlighted on social media, he said PDRM conducts enforcement operations continuously and not only when issues gain public attention or draw criticism from non-governmental organisations.
He pointed to last year’s detention of 42 individuals at the Sungai Tekali flats in Hulu Langat as evidence of ongoing enforcement efforts, adding that the matter was explained by the Kajang district police chief on June 9.
Commenting on a proposal to establish a Rohingya transit centre on an island near the Andaman Sea, Ayob Khan said the idea requires careful study due to significant logistical, management and financial challenges.
“Who will manage the centre, who will fund it, and after screening, where will these individuals be placed? Would a third country be willing to accept them?” he said.
He warned that such a facility could potentially become a pull factor for migrant smuggling syndicates if not properly planned and managed.
