Malaysia’s ‘shocking’ deal to return 5,000 Rohingya to Myanmar triggers refoulement fears

Asia - South China Morning Post · Jul 30, 2026

Malaysia’s claim that Myanmar has agreed to take back 5,000 Rohingya has raised hopes of easing pressure on its strained refugee system, but has also alarmed activists over the risks of returning members of the persecuted minority group to a country still engulfed by conflict. Rights groups insist any movement of refugees into Myanmar – where the military is fighting multiple conflicts and most Rohingya are denied citizenship – must be voluntary and backed by guarantees of safety, legal status...