Myanmar has expressed its willingness to receive 5,000 refugees currently in Malaysia, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said, as the government works towards a possible repatriation arrangement with the country.
Mohamad shared that the development follows bilateral discussions aimed at addressing Malaysia’s growing refugee population, with authorities now working to identify and screen those who could be considered for return. Myanmar had previously been reluctant to accept refugees from Malaysia.
“However, no repatriation will proceed if the individuals concerned face persecution or threats to their lives upon returning to Myanmar,” he said, adding that the Foreign Ministry and Home Ministry are examining the criteria and security conditions surrounding the proposed return before any final decision is made.
The government has begun identifying and screening Myanmar nationals held at immigration depots, with around 4,000 individuals initially identified for the process as authorities work towards the 5,000 target.
The issue has drawn scrutiny amid continuing conflict in Myanmar, with the UN refugee agency previously warning that current conditions do not support the safe and sustainable return of refugees to the country.
