The United Nations refugee agency has raised concerns over Malaysia’s reported plan to return about 1,500 Myanmar nationals, saying conditions in Myanmar remain too dangerous for safe and sustainable returns.

UNHCR spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh told reporters in Geneva on Tuesday that the group had, according to the agency’s latest information, not yet left Malaysia, with last-minute efforts continuing to prevent the returns.

“It is a very fluid situation,” Saltmarsh said, expressing concern over the reported imminent return of the Myanmar nationals.

He said the ongoing armed conflict, widespread violence and serious human rights violations across Myanmar meant that conditions did not currently allow for “safe, dignified and sustainable returns.”

Under international law, Saltmarsh said, people should not be returned to a country where they could face persecution, torture, serious harm or threats to their lives, liberty or security.

According to Anadolu Agency, dozens of buses arrived under police escort at a stadium near the Lumut naval base in northwestern Malaysia on Tuesday, where the Myanmar nationals were reportedly being processed ahead of the planned return.

The developments have drawn renewed attention to the situation of Myanmar nationals in Malaysia, where thousands have sought refuge from conflict and persecution in their home country.

UNHCR said it remained engaged with the Malaysian government through technical assistance, policy dialogue and capacity-building efforts, including work to strengthen protection measures that are accessible and effective.

The reported returns come as fighting continues across several parts of Myanmar, with civilians facing displacement, insecurity and restrictions on humanitarian access. UN agencies and rights groups have repeatedly warned that conditions in many parts of the country remain unsuitable for the return of people who may face serious risks.

BOB Post