Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution says Rohingya boat tragedy highlights push factors from camps, not just border security, with 29 dead off Langkawi
KOTA KINABALU: The recent boat tragedy off Langkawi involving Rohingya refugees should be viewed within broader global refugee dynamics rather than solely as a border security issue.
Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail emphasised that the “push factors” driving refugees to Malaysia must be considered alongside government response.
“These are Myanmar nationals who are not recognised as citizens and live in overcrowded camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, which now houses nearly 1.2 million refugees,” he said during an event with Pakatan Harapan candidate Thonny Chee.
He noted the camps contain 36,000 newborns while international funding continues to dwindle.
“Refugee camps are intended as a temporary solution for resettlement, but geopolitical changes mean that countries like the United States, previously the largest resettlement destination, are no longer accepting refugees.”
Saifuddin was responding to criticism that the November 15 migrant boat tragedy, which claimed 29 lives with 14 survivors, exposed gaps in Malaysia’s maritime border control.
He acknowledged some refugees may become involved in illegal activities like human smuggling during their journey but said such incidents are thoroughly investigated.
“Although Malaysia is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, the government cannot ignore refugees found at sea,” he stated.
“That is why search and rescue operations are conducted to save lives.”
Langkawi has seen approximately 2,300 refugee arrivals, detentions or fatalities from 2010 to 2025.
“The area is under the supervision of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency,” Saifuddin added.
“When incidents occur, we can deploy immediately.”
He confirmed it is the responsibility of MMEA, Marine Police and the Royal Malaysian Navy to ensure national security.
On election preparedness, Saifuddin said the Royal Malaysia Police is ready for contingencies including flood risks during the Sabah state election period.
He noted November 15 nomination day passed smoothly, indicating effective security arrangements.
“My message is to be ready for floods but also have confidence in the security forces,” he said.
“This election is a democratic celebration, citizens should exercise their right to vote without fear.”
Polling for the 17th Sabah State Election is scheduled for November 29 with early voting on November 25. – Bernama
