(Yangon, 19th) Myanmar’s Ministry of Immigration and Population issued a statement yesterday indicating that the issue of Myanmar citizens illegally staying in Malaysia is being dealt with through official negotiations between the two countries. The statement was in response to media reports regarding Malaysia’s recent large-scale crackdown on undocumented foreign nationals and their repatriation.
The statement noted: “In regards to Myanmar citizens illegally residing in Malaysia, both Malaysia and Myanmar are currently handling the matter through negotiation mechanisms. Once these citizens return to Myanmar, the Ministry of Immigration and Population will conduct identity verification and reception procedures in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.”
Recently, the Malaysian government has stepped up enforcement, conducting multiple raids and arresting a large number of undocumented foreign workers, including Myanmar nationals. Reportedly, thousands of illegal Myanmar workers have been detained, with some awaiting repatriation.
The Malaysian government has also introduced a special repatriation program. Those wishing to voluntarily return to Myanmar must apply for a Certificate of Identity (C of I) at the Myanmar Embassy in Malaysia. It is reported that as long as the required supporting documents are complete, the embassy can issue the document on the same day.
Documents that can be used to apply for the C of I include identification cards, household registers, proof of residence from the resident’s neighborhood, and addresses and contact information of close relatives such as parents and siblings.
However, the Myanmar Embassy in Kuala Lumpur recently issued a notice revealing that some individuals are attempting to use forged C of I documents for entry. The embassy stressed that it will cooperate with Malaysian law enforcement agencies to strictly pursue and deal with those who use or produce forged documents and will hold them accountable under the laws and regulations of both countries.
Both Myanmar and Malaysia reiterated that they will continue to cooperate in addressing the issue of illegal stays and safeguard the legal dignity and border management order of their respective countries.
The statement noted: “In regards to Myanmar citizens illegally residing in Malaysia, both Malaysia and Myanmar are currently handling the matter through negotiation mechanisms. Once these citizens return to Myanmar, the Ministry of Immigration and Population will conduct identity verification and reception procedures in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.”
Recently, the Malaysian government has stepped up enforcement, conducting multiple raids and arresting a large number of undocumented foreign workers, including Myanmar nationals. Reportedly, thousands of illegal Myanmar workers have been detained, with some awaiting repatriation.
The Malaysian government has also introduced a special repatriation program. Those wishing to voluntarily return to Myanmar must apply for a Certificate of Identity (C of I) at the Myanmar Embassy in Malaysia. It is reported that as long as the required supporting documents are complete, the embassy can issue the document on the same day.
Documents that can be used to apply for the C of I include identification cards, household registers, proof of residence from the resident’s neighborhood, and addresses and contact information of close relatives such as parents and siblings.
However, the Myanmar Embassy in Kuala Lumpur recently issued a notice revealing that some individuals are attempting to use forged C of I documents for entry. The embassy stressed that it will cooperate with Malaysian law enforcement agencies to strictly pursue and deal with those who use or produce forged documents and will hold them accountable under the laws and regulations of both countries.
Both Myanmar and Malaysia reiterated that they will continue to cooperate in addressing the issue of illegal stays and safeguard the legal dignity and border management order of their respective countries.