Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing arrived in Malaysia for his first visit since the 2021 coup, amid concerns regarding the deportation of Myanmar nationals. Hlaing's visit includes discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, focusing on the repatriation of thousands of Myanmar nationals currently in Malaysia.
Min Aung Hlaing landed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 04:30 GMT on Wednesday, as part of a two-day visit. Malaysia is pursuing the repatriation of Myanmar nationals despite warnings from the United Nations and human rights organizations about potential dangers faced by returnees due to ongoing civil conflict in Myanmar.
The Malaysian government stated that the visit provides an opportunity for continued engagement with Myanmar, with key issues including the “voluntary, dignified and safe repatriation of Myanmar nationals of all ethnic groups who have been in Malaysia illegally.” A spokeswoman for Hlaing confirmed that discussions will cover the same agenda.
Since the military coup led by Hlaing in 2021, Myanmar has experienced significant turmoil, resulting in an estimated 100,000 deaths and over 3.5 million displaced individuals. Hlaing, who transitioned to a civilian role after a controversial election, has visited several ASEAN member countries and other nations since assuming the presidency in April.
In Malaysia, there has been increased pressure on undocumented migrants and refugees, particularly against the Rohingya community, many of whom fled a military crackdown in 2017. Prime Minister Anwar previously indicated that he would officially invite Hlaing if Myanmar accepted the return of Rohingya refugees. Since January, Malaysia has deported approximately 10,000 Myanmar nationals, with assurances from Myanmar authorities regarding their safety upon return.
Malaysia currently hosts around 215,600 refugees and asylum seekers registered with the UNHCR, including about 126,000 Rohingya, making it one of the largest refugee communities in Southeast Asia. However, Malaysia is not a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention and treats refugees as undocumented migrants.