PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has issued a firm reminder to Rohingya refugees residing in Malaysia that they must comply with the nation’s laws and regulations, warning that enforcement action will be taken against those who fail to do so.
While reaffirming Malaysia’s longstanding humanitarian approach towards displaced communities, Anwar said refugees remain subject to the country's legal framework, including regulations governing business operations, commercial activities and the use of premises.
“Advice to the people of Myanmar, particularly the Rohingya, is that they must also comply with the laws and regulations of our country. Their buildings and businesses must follow the rules, and if they do not comply, we will have no choice but to take action,” Bernama reported him saying today.
The Prime Minister made the remarks when speaking to reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Al-Hidayah in Sentul.
Anwar revealed that issues relating to enforcement involving Rohingya refugees had been discussed at Cabinet level together with Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail to ensure that legal action is carried out consistently where necessary.
He also urged local councils and state governments to play a more active role in monitoring misconduct and addressing any misuse of premises linked to refugee communities.
The Prime Minister's comments come amid growing public debate over the management of Rohingya settlements and businesses in several parts of the country.
Addressing calls from some quarters for Rohingya refugees to be repatriated to Myanmar, Anwar said the matter remains a complex humanitarian challenge due to obstacles involving both return arrangements and third-country resettlement efforts.
“People can talk about sending them back, but where do we send them? We have problems with the Myanmar government, which has blocked such efforts. During my two rounds of discussions with Myanmar's leadership, I raised two matters.
“First, that the humanitarian assistance we provide must be guaranteed to benefit everyone, and this was agreed to. Second, stop the oppression and crimes against the people of Myanmar, both Muslims and non-Muslims, in Rakhine as well as throughout Myanmar,” he said.
Anwar stressed that any long-term solution must involve cooperation from Myanmar and address the root causes of displacement, including persecution and violence in affected regions.
At the same time, he appealed to Malaysians not to take matters into their own hands and instead allow the authorities to manage the issue through proper legal channels.
“I hope our people, especially members of the Muslim community who have voiced objections, will preserve our sense of humanity and not violate laws or regulations in dealing with this issue,” he said.
His remarks underscore the government's effort to balance humanitarian responsibilities with domestic law enforcement, while continuing to push for regional and international solutions to one of Southeast Asia’s most enduring refugee crises. - June 12, 2026
