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Talk to Asean leaders to end Myanmar crisis, PH urges govt

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The coalition and Christian bodies also call on government to reconsider decision to deport 1,200 Myanmar nationals.

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Free Malaysia Today
Refugees and asylum seekers who are sent back face persecution and even death, say Pakatan Harapan and church leaders. (AP pic)

PETALING JAYA:
Pakatan Harapan (PH) leaders have called on Putrajaya to initiate a dialogue between Asean leaders and the Myanmar junta to discuss the restoration of peace and democracy in the country.

In a joint statement by opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, DAP’s Lim Guan Eng and Amanah’s Mohamad Sabu, the coalition said there was a need to end the repression of peaceful demonstrations, release prisoners of conscience and return democracy as well as the institution of Parliament in Myanmar.

It also acknowledged that the Kuala Lumpur High Court had granted an interim stay of two days for 1,200 Myanmar nationals who were meant to be deported earlier today.

However, PH said this “may not stop the Malaysian government from continuing with the repatriation process after that period is over,” and called on the government to reconsider its decision.

“The act of repatriating refugees to a conflict zone before stability and peace has been truly established may jeopardise their safety,” they said in a statement.

They urged the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to verify news of several refugee children who may be separated from their parents during the deportation.

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Malaysia also joined the chorus, asking for UNHCR to verify the 1,200 Myanmar individuals to guarantee their personal security.

“As caring Malaysians, we should not subject anyone to situations that are marked by fear, uncertainty and unease,” it said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the Council of Churches of Malaysia (CCM) said the decision to deport the Myanmar nationals was an “act contrary to international law and norms” and that the system of checks and balances have disappeared.

“The prime minister should grant UNHCR full access to detention centres to identify refugees and asylum seekers, and ensure their protection and safety,” said CCM general-secretary Hermen Shastri.

He added that those whose lives were being threatened should not be forced to return to any country where they may face persecution or even death.

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