Malaysia To Strengthen ASEAN, UNHCR Cooperation On Rohingya Crisis
KUALA LUMPUR, July 7 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will continue to strengthen cooperation with ASEAN member states and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in addressing the Rohingya refugee crisis through a more strategic and comprehensive approach.
Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said Malaysia has consistently used the ASEAN platform to push for a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Myanmar, while working closely with the UNHCR to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees in the country.
He said the approach reflected Malaysia's commitment to regional security and humanitarian responsibility, as the refugee and asylum seeker crisis, including that involving the Rohingya, had cross-border implications such as irregular migration, human trafficking and security challenges.
“However, the effectiveness of these efforts in achieving a long-term solution remains limited, as ASEAN’s response is constrained by its principles of non-interference and consensus-based decision-making, which restrict stronger collective action against Myanmar.
“At the same time, the UNHCR's mandate is limited to providing protection and assistance to refugees, without the authority to address the political causes of the crisis.
“As a result, current efforts are focused more on protecting human rights and delivering humanitarian aid than on achieving a comprehensive solution,” he said at the Special Chamber session of the Dewan Rakyat sitting here today.
Lukanisman was replying to a question from Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim (PN-Arau) on the extent of Malaysia's cooperation with ASEAN and the UNHCR in seeking a long-term solution to the crisis.
On future measures, he said Malaysia was prepared to consider several regional strategies, including strengthening responsibility-sharing mechanisms among ASEAN member states and promoting a political solution that would enable the voluntary, safe and dignified return of Rohingya refugees.
“This approach will not only strengthen regional stability, but also reflects Malaysia's role as a country committed to peace, security and humanitarian principles at the international level,” he added.
--BERNAMA
