Malaysia says it will stop any return of Myanmar refugees when clear evidence or risk points to persecution, torture or a threat to life, while later transfers depend on checks and coordination between the governments.
The program covers up to 5,000 Myanmar refugees held in immigration detention depots. Malaysia repatriated 1,476 Myanmar refugees on Sept. 29 using maritime assets belonging to Myanmar's government, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said in a written parliamentary reply Wednesday.
Member of Parliament Jimmy Puah Wee Tse had asked about progress on a plan to return 5,000 Rohingya, including the timing and protections for those affected. Saifuddin's answer described a broader program for Myanmar refugees in immigration detention. The Home Ministry is coordinating it through the Immigration Department and other government agencies.
Later transfers depend on Myanmar completing identification, confirming refugees' identities and status, and preparing documents. Security screening is also part of the process. Saifuddin said the governments must be ready on logistics and operational coordination. He described the arrangement as a joint effort managed through talks with Myanmar.
Saifuddin said Malaysia would not proceed with an individual's return if clear evidence or risk indicated that person could face persecution, torture or a threat to life in Myanmar. He said Myanmar had assured Malaysia about returnees' safety. Authorities would monitor the process through its stages to guard against human-rights abuses, he added.
Saifuddin also noted that Malaysia is not a party to the 1951 Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol. He said the Madani government would carry out the program in line with the rule of law and international humanitarian standards. Any further phase remains subject to the required checks, logistical readiness and coordination.
