Former Skudai assemblywoman has urged the government to launch a special investigation into issues involving Rohingya refugees in Malaysia, citing public concerns over border security and allegations that agents charge refugees to facilitate their entry into the country. She questioned how migrants could enter Malaysian waters and borders so easily, describing the matter as one that affects national sovereignty.
Marina also called for the government to compile detailed data on the Rohingya population by district and state, arguing that authorities do not have accurate figures on the actual number of Rohingya refugees in Malaysia, including those who entered illegally. She said the issue had been raised multiple times in official meetings but without satisfactory answers.
While acknowledging public calls for enforcement action, Marina questioned what would happen if large numbers of Rohingya refugees were arrested, including where they would be housed and who would bear the costs. She noted that repatriation is not a straightforward option and could expose Malaysia to international criticism over the treatment of refugees.
The former educator of Rohingya children also urged the government to engage in transparent discussions with UNHCR regarding refugee management and third-country resettlement. She pointed out that many refugees wait years for relocation, while tightening immigration policies in potential host countries have made the process increasingly difficult.
Marina further questioned what measures UNHCR is taking to address the growing refugee population in Malaysia and stressed that the Malaysian government does not receive dedicated funding to support Rohingya refugees. She also called for action against dishonest enforcement officers allegedly involved with syndicates and demanded greater accountability from UNHCR over its management of the refugee issu
