Malaysia is concerned about Uighurs in Xinjiang, China

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama): Malaysia condemns all forms of oppression against any ethnic or minority group as long as their human rights struggle is based on the law and constitution of the country.

Deputy Foreign Minister Senator Datuk Marzuki Yahya (pic) said at the same time, Malaysia has always taken a cautious approach in expressing its stand on issues that occur in other countries.

“This approach takes into account Malaysia's policy to not interfere with the internal affairs of other countries without reasonable cause.

“Referring to what happened to the Uighur ethnic minority in Xinjiang (China), Malaysia has voiced its views and recommendations on the international stage so that China will ensure that the rights and freedom of religion and harmony of its people are protected,” he said.

He said this when winding up debate on the Supply Bill for his ministry at the Dewan Negara on Tuesday (Dec 18).

“During the 45th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation in Dhaka, Bangladesh in May, Malaysia and other OIC members had requested the OIC secretary-general to hold talks with the Chinese government to voice our views on the issue of the Islamic minority community.

“Hence, the government has constantly monitored developments in the region and will continue to seek the best solution to this issue through regional and international cooperation forums,” he added.

The issue of the Uighur ethnic issue was mentioned by Senator Nuridah Mohd Salleh earlier while debating the bill. - Bernama