Myanmar junta chief to visit Malaysia amid refugee deportations

Myanmar's junta chief-turned-President Min Aung Hlaing is set to visit Malaysia in October, according to a report by Malaysia's state news agency Bernama. The visit occurs as Malaysia continues talks with Myanmar regarding the return of refugees and individuals displaced by conflict.

On Tuesday, Malaysia deported nearly 1,500 Myanmar nationals on three ships provided by the Myanmar government. This action proceeded despite concerns raised by the United Nations and human rights groups regarding the safety of those being repatriated to Myanmar, which has been embroiled in civil war since the military coup led by Min Aung Hlaing in 2021.

Min Aung Hlaing, who was elected president after an army-backed party-dominated election in April, will be among several foreign leaders visiting Kuala Lumpur next month, Bernama cited Malaysian government spokesperson and Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil as saying on Wednesday. Fahmi also indicated that Malaysia intends to repatriate an additional 3,524 individuals to Myanmar as part of its ongoing refugee program. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is expected to discuss facilitating further returns with Myanmar in the near future.

Anwar rejected accusations that Malaysia was returning refugees without regard for their safety, asserting that continued engagement is crucial for resolving long-standing issues. He stated on Tuesday that "It's not true to say, just push them back ... We, of course, negotiate." Malaysia has previously highlighted the significant financial burden and security threats posed by refugees from Myanmar, who constitute the majority of asylum-seekers in the country.