Episode: KPN 27-04-2026

Rohingya families urge Malaysia to release long-term detainees

Families of detained Rohingya refugees are calling on the government of Malaysia to release thousands of Rohingya currently held in immigration detention centres, many of whom have reportedly been detained for prolonged periods under national immigration laws.

Relatives say the detainees—including women, children, and elderly individuals—originally fled persecution and violence in Myanmar’s Rakhine State in search of safety. Instead, many now remain confined in detention facilities, raising mounting humanitarian concerns among family members and advocacy groups.

According to community sources, more than 5,000 Rohingya refugees are currently held across multiple detention centres in Malaysia. Some individuals have reportedly remained in custody for over eight years. Images circulating within the Rohingya community suggest severe overcrowding and limited access to basic services, intensifying concerns over health risks, sanitation conditions, and overall detainee welfare.

Family members describe growing distress over the prolonged detention. “They fled violence in hopes of living in peace, but now they are imprisoned,” one relative said. Rights organizations have echoed these concerns, warning that extended detention may violate fundamental human rights principles and calling for immediate policy reforms.

Rohingya families residing in refugee camps in Bangladesh have appealed directly to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, urging the release of detainees—particularly those held for extended periods without resolution. Advocacy groups have also called on authorities to adopt more humane approaches and pursue sustainable, long-term solutions for displaced Rohingya populations.

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