Kuala lumpur: The issue of Rohingya refugees in Malaysia requires a comprehensive approach involving multiple enforcement agencies as well as the countries concerned. Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay emphasized the complexity of the entry process of the ethnic group into the country, which involves multiple layers beginning from maritime areas under the jurisdiction of other agencies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ayob Khan explained that the initial layer involves security control by the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, while the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) serves as the final recipient in the chain. He stressed the importance of involving all parties to address the issue effectively, highlighting that police involvement is limited to security aspects when criminal offences occur.
Ayob Khan shared these insights during a press conference after officiating the Hospital Visit Programme in conjunction with the 219th Police Day at Tunku Ampuan Besar Tuanku Aishah Rohani Hospital, the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Children's Specialist Hospital. He cited statistics from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) indicating that as of last April, there were 219,472 card holders in Malaysia, with 128,200 being Rohingyas.
Commenting on allegations of illegal foreigner settlements frequently circulated on social media, Ayob Khan stated that PDRM's detention operations are conducted continuously, irrespective of public attention or concern from non-governmental organisations (NGOs). He pointed to the detention of 42 individuals at the Sungai Tekali flats in Hulu Langat last year, with the Kajang district police chief providing an explanation on June 9.
Regarding the proposal to establish a Rohingya transit centre on an island near the Andaman Sea, Ayob Khan noted that an in-depth study is required due to potential logistical and management challenges. He raised questions about the management, financing, and subsequent placement of individuals, as well as the willingness of third countries to accept them.
He concluded by stating that the matter must be carefully examined to prevent it from becoming a pull factor for migrant smuggling syndicates in the future.