PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to closer bilateral ties and joint regional efforts on humanitarian and security issues.
He said this at an official luncheon for Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser to the Government of Bangladesh, and members of the visiting Bangladeshi delegation.
Earlier, Anwar and Professor Yunus signed five memoranda of understanding and exchanged three diplomatic notes, focusing on economic and social cooperation between the two countries.
“God willing, both countries will continue to work closely across all key sectors to ensure the best possible outcomes for the people of Malaysia and Bangladesh,” said Anwar.
High on the agenda was the Rohingya refugee crisis, with both leaders expressing deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian burden shouldered by Bangladesh.
“You have just mentioned Rohingya. This is a big problem for us. We are seeking help from Malaysia, particularly as chair of the ASEAN countries. So, we need all the help we can get from our good friend Malaysia,” said Professor Yunus.
Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s solidarity, stating, “On the regional issues, of course, we are concerned with the burden placed on Bangladesh on having to cater for enormous numbers of Rohingya refugees.”
He added that securing peace in Myanmar remains a major priority for Malaysia, not only to ease pressure on Bangladesh, but also to end the suffering of the displaced. He said Malaysia would work with ASEAN partners to deliver humanitarian aid and support political resolution efforts.
“Our foreign minister will coordinate a team with Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand to visit Myanmar in the coming weeks to ensure peace is attained and that the atrocities against some ethnic minorities and the people of Myanmar can be amicably resolved,” he said.
Anwar commended Bangladesh for its diplomatic engagement on the issue through international forums in New York, Kolkata, and Kuala Lumpur. He also thanked Professor Yunus for his contributions to regional cooperation, stating, “So, thank you again, my dear friend, on behalf of my family and the people of Malaysia for your role and your contribution. And we wish you well.”
More than one million Rohingya are currently living in Bangladesh, including approximately 750,000 who fled across the border in 2017 following military crackdowns in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. - August 12, 2025
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