Malaysia, Bangladesh seek solution to Rohingya ethnic issue through ASEAN

MALAYSIA and Bangladesh have strengthened cooperation to help resolve the Rohingya refugee crisis, including through the ASEAN platform.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said both countries would continue to utilise available diplomatic channels to find a solution to the plight of the Rohingya ethnic group in Bangladesh and Malaysia, including intensifying engagement with the Myanmar authorities.

“Through joint efforts, we are trying to help resolve the plight of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and also here.

“This includes interacting through the Foreign Minister’s office and ASEAN mechanisms with the Myanmar authorities to resolve some of the issues,” he said.

He said this at a joint press conference with Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman at the Perdana Putra Building today.

Meanwhile, Tarique also expressed concern over the plight of the Rohingya ethnic group currently seeking refuge in Bangladesh and appreciated Malaysia’s commitment to continuing efforts to ensure the refugees can be repatriated to Myanmar.

“I express deep concern for the Rohingya community seeking refuge in Bangladesh and thank Malaysia for its continued support for their safe and dignified repatriation to Myanmar,” he said.

Tarique said the issue was among the matters discussed with Anwar, in addition to regional cooperation involving ASEAN.

Meanwhile, the two leaders also exchanged views on the conflicts in West Asia, particularly the situation in Gaza and Palestine.

Anwar said Malaysia and Bangladesh share the same stance on the suffering of the Palestinian people following the atrocities committed by the Zionist regime of Israel in Gaza.

“Regarding global issues, Palestine, the suffering and cruelty inflicted on Gaza by the Zionist regime of Israel, as well as support for lasting peace in the Gulf and Iran.

“We stand together on this matter and will continue to interact with all friends to ensure that peace can be achieved,” said Anwar.

Earlier, Tarique, who is on an official visit to Malaysia, was given an official welcome at the Perdana Putra Building today.

His arrival at 9 am was greeted by Anwar and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail. – June 22, 2026