Myanmar willing to accept repatriation of nationals in large numbers at own expense, says Anwar

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 8 — Myanmar is prepared to facilitate the repatriation of its nationals on a large scale, with the country ready to bear the associated costs, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.

He said more than 10,493 Myanmar citizens and personnel had so far been repatriated to Myanmar through flights and naval ships, with further repatriation to be negotiated between Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs and its Myanmar counterpart.

Anwar said Malaysia appreciated Myanmar’s willingness to accept its nationals, noting that very few countries were prepared to undertake repatriation in such large numbers at their own expense.

“Very, very few, hardly any country in my experience, are willing to accept this repatriation in large numbers at their own expense, as you have shown in Myanmar,” he said in his remarks during a joint press conference here today in conjunction with Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing two-day official visit that began yesterday.

Anwar said the remaining Myanmar nationals would be repatriated according to the stipulated rules and procedures, subject to verification of their records.

Anwar said Min Aung Hlaing had also indicated that between 3,000 and 4,000 Myanmar nationals currently at immigration depots would be repatriated.

He added relevant authorities would need to verify nationality and records, including any criminal records, before completing the repatriation process.

Anwar also thanked Myanmar for its cooperation, particularly in facilitating the return of its nationals.

“I must again reiterate my thanks for your candid manner and willingness to collaborate,” he said.

The two leaders have discussed several key issues, including efforts to repatriate Myanmar nationals of all ethnic groups who are in Malaysia illegally, on a voluntary, dignified and safe basis. — Bernama