Myanmar Crisis Requires Immediate Attention, Says Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim
The Crisis in Myanmar
The crisis in Myanmar requires immediate attention due to its impact on neighbouring countries, says Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The civil unrest in Myanmar has been ongoing since February 2021, when the military overthrew the democratically-elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy.
Impact on Neighbouring Countries
Anwar said Myanmar’s authorities have been made aware of the need for Asean to take a strong position on the matter as the civil unrest has impacted peace and security across the region. The critical point is that peace should be achieved without discriminating against certain groups or minorities, he added.
Refugees in Malaysia
…delaying (a resolution) means suffering for many people, including refugees in Bangladesh and even in Malaysia, where there are 200,000 refugees from Myanmar. It is totally atrocious to allow this to continue, said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during a plenary session on Asean at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Rohingya Migration
The mostly Muslim Rohingya experience persecution in their predominantly Buddhist homeland of Myanmar, with many fleeing to refugee camps in Bangladesh or risking their lives on perilous sea journeys to try to reach Malaysia or Indonesia through Thailand. Yesterday, AFP reported that a group of 49 Rohingya migrants travelling by boat from Bangladesh to Malaysia was found near a beach on Thailand’s popular island of Phuket.
Myanmar’s Political Situation
Myanmar has been in turmoil since February 2021 when its military overthrew the democratically-elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy. The coup sparked widespread protests and civil unrest across the country, leading to violent crackdowns by the military junta that saw hundreds of thousands displaced. Despite widespread international condemnation and internal strife, the junta has announced plans to hold an election this year, which critics argue is a ploy to maintain military rule under the guise of democracy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the crisis in Myanmar requires immediate attention and action to address the humanitarian crisis and restore peace and stability to the region. The international community must come together to support the people of Myanmar and pressure the military junta to end its persecution and violence.
FAQs
Q: How many refugees from Myanmar are in Malaysia?
A: According to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, there are 200,000 refugees from Myanmar in Malaysia.
Q: What is the situation like for Rohingya migrants?
A: The mostly Muslim Rohingya experience persecution in their predominantly Buddhist homeland of Myanmar, and many flee to refugee camps in Bangladesh or risk their lives on perilous sea journeys to try to reach Malaysia or Indonesia through Thailand.
Q: What is the political situation in Myanmar like?
A: Myanmar has been in turmoil since February 2021 when its military overthrew the democratically-elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi and the National League for Democracy. The coup sparked widespread protests and civil unrest, leading to violent crackdowns by the military junta that saw hundreds of thousands displaced.