Yangon:Myanmar confirmed that nearly 1,500 of its nationals, who had completed sentences for unlawful residency and other immigration offenses, were repatriated from Malaysia.

According to Anadolu Agency, three Burmese vessels, including a hospital ship, arrived in Yangon on Sunday morning, marking a smooth and successful repatriation effort. The repatriation was coordinated by officials from the military, known as Tatmadaw, and relevant ministries, bringing back 1,476 citizens.

The Burmese Navy ships, UMS Mottama, UMS Thanlwin, and UMS Sinphyushin, had left Yangon on September 24, arriving at Lumut Port in Malaysia on September 28. Following their arrival, Malaysia began the repatriation process for 1,476 nationals from a larger group of approximately 5,000. This group included 1,370 men, 79 women, 20 boys, and seven girls, aged between eight and 60.

The Information Ministry stated that efforts are ongoing to ensure the repatriated individuals are swiftly reunited with their families and safely returned to their hometowns. Additionally, Burmese authorities have repatriated 1,905 citizens from Cambodia since January.

The decision by Malaysia to repatriate these individuals has raised concerns from the UN and other organizations. UNHCR spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh expressed worry over the return of the individuals to Myanmar, citing ongoing armed conflict, widespread violence, and human rights violations in the country. He emphasized that international law prohibits sending people to countries where they may face persecution or threats to their safety.

Saltmarsh also noted that the UNHCR remains committed to working with the Malaysian government to develop protection measures through technical support and policy dialogue.