Refugee protection essential in Malaysia’s combat against Covid-19

The Malaysian Advisory Group on Myanmar expresses its deep concern over recent statements by Home Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin and the Director-General of Immigration Dato' Indera Khairul Dzaimee Daud towards refugees which we believe endangers Malaysians and will impede our recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.

These vulnerable populations are victims of protracted conflicts and have risked their lives to flee home in search of refuge, including women and children. It is regrettable that the state apparatus such as the National Task Force (NTF) issued an anti-Rohingya poster which, unfortunately, fanned anti-refugee sentiments against a defenseless community.