Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution says Myanmar migrant boat tragedy highlights ongoing regional instability and humanitarian pressures driving desperate sea journeys.
LANGKAWI: The recent boat tragedy involving illegal migrants from Myanmar reflects broader humanitarian pressures across the region, according to Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
He stated this incident should not be viewed as isolated, highlighting how instability and hardship in neighbouring countries continue forcing people to undertake dangerous sea journeys.
“This is not a one-off case,” he told reporters after a briefing on search and rescue operations near the Malaysia-Thailand maritime border.
“It is part of an ecosystem that pushes people to move when they face insecurity or humanitarian challenges in their homeland.”
Initial findings indicate all passengers were from Myanmar, including individuals from displaced communities and refugee camps.
Survivors revealed they had paid agents believed to be part of smuggling networks to reach Malaysia as their intended destination.
“They were prepared to endure a dangerous voyage, especially during the monsoon season, to reach our shores,” Saifuddin Nasution added.
He noted Langkawi’s strategic location near Thailand makes it a frequent landing point for such journeys.
Police are investigating possible human trafficking or organised criminal links, with appropriate action to follow once rescue operations conclude.
The minister emphasised that rescuing survivors remains the top priority, with search efforts continuing until officially concluded.
Meanwhile, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency continues strengthening its capacity with additional helicopters, patrol vessels, drones and radar systems.
These efforts have helped curb illegal sea entries, with nearly 2,300 individuals detained in Langkawi waters between 2010 and 2025 according to MMEA data. – Bernama
