The plan to repatriate approximately 5,000 Rohingya refugees from Malaysia back to Myanmar raises significant concerns among human rights advocates and international observers. Many fear that returning these refugees to Myanmar, where they have faced longstanding persecution and violence, may expose them to further harm.
Malaysia's suspension of new UNHCR refugee registrations to implement the Dokumen Pendaftaran Pelarian (DPP) programme has been criticized for potentially undermining refugee rights and protections. The shift to a national system may reduce international oversight and may not fully address the vulnerabilities of the Rohingya population.
The usage of naval vessels for repatriation and the detention of refugees in immigration centres prior to return has also been questioned, with calls for greater transparency and safeguards to ensure that the rights and safety of refugees are prioritized.
Amnesty International Malaysia and other human rights groups have called for comprehensive assessments and transparent procedures before any repatriation occurs, to avoid forced returns and violations of international refugee and human rights law.