Malaysia's home minister says Rohingya passport claims require solid evidence
Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail refused to comment on allegations that Rohingya entered Malaysia with Bangladeshi passports, saying proof is needed.
During a discourse in Kulim, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail declined to respond to claims that Rohingya refugees entered Malaysia on Bangladeshi passports before receiving refugee documentation, insisting that only strong, verifiable evidence would merit a reply. The allegation stems from a recent video in which a Rohingya individual asserted he had travelled to Malaysia using a Bangladeshi passport facilitated by the embassy and immigration authorities, with assistance from his parents in Bangladesh.
Saifuddin also emphasized that the matter is not currently within his knowledge. In a separate statement, he said the probe into accusations that MCBA director-general Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain assaulted two police officers is now in the hands of the relevant authorities, after investigation papers were forwarded to the Attorney-General's Chambers. Attorney-General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar has indicated that further examination of the case is required before any final action.
Why it matters
The minister's stance highlights the need for evidence before policy debates on refugee entry and ongoing scrutiny of alleged police misconduct.
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