The government will take action against Rohingya refugees found to have violated Malaysian laws and regulations, including those related to business activities and the construction of buildings, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said.
Speaking after Friday prayers at Masjid Al-Hidayah, Anwar said the issue of the growing Rohingya population in Malaysia was discussed with Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail during the Cabinet meeting held earlier today.
Government stresses compliance with local laws
Anwar said Myanmar nationals, particularly members of the Rohingya community, must comply with Malaysian regulations.
He said any buildings and businesses operated by them must adhere to existing rules and requirements.
The prime minister added that the federal government would also engage state governments, as matters involving buildings and urban development fall under their jurisdiction, and they should likewise take firm enforcement action where necessary.
Repatriation remains a humanitarian challenge
On the issue of repatriating Rohingya refugees in Malaysia, Anwar said the matter involved humanitarian considerations and remained difficult because the Myanmar government was preventing their return.
He noted that Malaysia had yet to find a solution either to send the refugees to a third country or facilitate their return to Myanmar.
According to Anwar, the challenge extends beyond Malaysia, with other countries in the region, including Bangladesh, also facing similar issues involving millions of refugees, including those in Cox’s Bazar.
Public urged not to take matters into their own hands
Anwar also called on Malaysians, particularly Muslims, not to act outside the law when dealing with issues related to the Rohingya community.
He urged the public to refrain from taking matters into their own hands and to allow the authorities to address the situation in accordance with the law.
His remarks came after the discovery of a 0.4-hectare Rohingya settlement concealed on private land near Jalan Sungai Tekali in Hulu Langat, which is believed to have existed for nearly a decade.
The site is located about one kilometre from another settlement that recently gained public attention after Rohingya residents were alleged to have constructed unauthorised four-storey buildings.
