KUALA LUMPUR — The United Nations refugee agency has distanced itself from Malaysia’s planned repatriation of Myanmar refugees, saying it is not involved in the programme and warning that conditions in Myanmar remain unsafe for their return.
The UNHCR said on September 1 that continued armed conflict and violence across Myanmar meant refugees could not currently return in conditions that were safe, dignified and sustainable.
“Under customary international law – a binding obligation on all states – no one should be sent to a country where their rights or freedoms may be at risk,” it said in an e-mailed statement, as reported by Reuters.
The agency said any repatriation must be based on an informed and voluntary decision, while ensuring the safety and dignity of those returning.
“Any refugee return must be voluntary, based on an informed decision, and take place in conditions of safety and dignity,” it added.
The UNHCR also urged authorities to assess the protection needs of refugees before proceeding with their return.
“UNHCR urges that careful consideration be given to the protection needs of all those concerned before they are returned to Myanmar and stands ready to engage with relevant authorities on protection safeguards,” it said.
The statement follows the Home Ministry’s announcement last week that it had finalised the first phase of Malaysia’s voluntary repatriation programme, involving 1,476 Myanmar refugees scheduled to return on September 29.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had previously said Myanmar had agreed to receive 5,000 Rohingya, as concerns over the presence of refugees have grown within some local communities in Malaysia.
A Home Ministry spokesperson declined to comment on the UNHCR’s statement, referring instead to the ministry’s earlier position that the repatriation process was voluntary.
Myanmar has been embroiled in a nationwide civil war since the military coup in 2021, prompting thousands of people to flee the country.
UNHCR data showed that Malaysia was hosting about 193,800 refugees from Myanmar as of February. They include members of various ethnic groups, including the Rohingya and Chin.
Activists have said the actual number of Myanmar refugees in Malaysia is likely higher, as many remain unregistered.
