PM Anwar-Dr. Yunus Spark Hope for Rohingya Rights and Dignity

As Nobel Laureate Dr. Yunus steps into leadership in Bangladesh, a ripple of hopeful anticipation reaches Malaysia, where thousands of Rohingya refugees have found shelter. For the Rohingya Muslims of Arakan survivors of immense hardship—this change presents a rare opportunity for renewed support and collaboration. With Dr. Yunus’s vision of compassionate governance under global scrutiny, Malaysia, as a key stakeholder, stands at a vital crossroads to transform empathy into action.

This article delves into the historical struggles and current challenges faced by the Rohingya, illuminating the potential for a stronger partnership between Malaysia and Bangladesh. Could this moment mark the start of lasting relief and a united regional approach to one of today’s most pressing humanitarian crises? Read on to discover what this new chapter could mean for Malaysia’s role in shared responsibility across the region.

Background of the Rohingya Crisis and Bangladesh’s Historical Role
The persecution of the Rohingya people in Myanmar (Burma), particularly in Rakhine State, has caused multiple waves of forced migration into Bangladesh. This historical trend is rooted in long-standing exclusionary policies and military actions targeting the Rohingya because of their ethnicity and religious differences, depriving and expelling them of their homeland.

1978: Operation Nagamin and the First Mass Exodus
In 1978, the Burmese military launched “Operation Nagamin” (Dragon King), a national campaign aimed at identifying “foreigners” and expelling them. The operation was officially described as a routine census and documentation effort. However, it quickly escalated into widespread military brutality, including arrests, sexual violence, torture, and forced evictions against particular ethnic groups living in Arakan State for centuries. The crackdown displaced more than 200,000 Rohingya, who crossed the Naf River into Bangladesh, seeking refuge from what they described as ethnic cleansing.

Bangladesh’s response to the influx involved setting up temporary camps along the border with support from international organizations. However, the sheer number of refugees overwhelmed Bangladesh’s limited infrastructure. This prompted Bangladesh to negotiate repatriation with Myanmar, leading to an agreement that saw many Rohingya return to Myanmar under duress, amid deteriorating conditions in Bangladeshi camps. Myanmar did not recognize the Rohingya as citizens upon their return, which laid the groundwork for future displacements and atrocities.

1991-1992: Forced Labor and a Second Wave of Refugees
In 1991-92, Myanmar’s military escalated efforts to drive out the Rohingya through a combination of forced labor, religious persecution, and arbitrary violence. An estimated 250,000 Rohingya fled to Bangladesh during this period. The refugees reported experiences of forced labor camps, where men were compelled to work on infrastructure projects without compensation, and women suffered from systematic sexual violence and discrimination based on race, religion, and color, barring them from all government jobs and facilities, including healthcare, education, and justice. A new border law was also implemented in their state.

Bangladesh housed the refugees in 19 camps concentrated around Cox’s Bazar, with logistical support from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). However, the government’s stance was clear: local integration was not an option, and Bangladesh sought to repatriate the refugees as quickly as possible. In September 1992, Myanmar and Bangladesh agreed on a repatriation plan, but progress was slow and marred by allegations of forced returns. UNHCR withdrew support temporarily after discovering that many returns were not voluntary. By 1997, approximately 230,000 Rohingya had been sent back, but without citizenship or meaningful guarantees of safety, their situation remained precarious.

2017: The Largest and Most Devastating Displacement
The most severe crisis occurred in August 2017, following accusations that some so-called Rohingya armed groups attacked security forces and Myanmar’s subsequent military operations. Entire Rohingya villages were burned to the ground, with survivors recounting mass killings, gang rapes, and family separations. The brutality of these actions forced over 800,000 Rohingya to flee into Bangladesh in a matter of months, joining smaller groups that had escaped earlier violence. This wave brought the total number of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh to over 1.2 million.

This time, not only government forces but also extremist Buddhist Rakhine groups mobilized to maximize harm against the Rohingya civilians.

Bangladesh responded by setting up large refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, which quickly became the world’s largest refugee settlement. Despite international aid, the influx strained local infrastructure, causing severe overcrowding and environmental degradation. The refugees faced chronic shortages of food, water, and healthcare, while educational and employment opportunities remained limited. Bangladesh consistently advocated for international pressure on Myanmar to allow the safe and voluntary repatriation of the Rohingya, but with little progress.

Bangladesh’s Refugee Policy and Diplomatic Efforts
Throughout these crises, Bangladesh has maintained a non-integration policy, emphasizing that the Rohingya should eventually return to Myanmar. The government has repeatedly appealed for international support and called on neighboring countries and organizations like ASEAN and the OIC to intervene. Despite these efforts, Myanmar’s refusal to recognize the Rohingya as citizens and its reluctance to create safe conditions for their return have stalled progress.

Repatriation attempts have continued over the years. For example, in 2017, Myanmar and Bangladesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate refugee returns. However, most Rohingya have refused to go back, citing the absence of safety guarantees and citizenship rights. Pilot repatriation efforts initiated in 2023, aimed at returning small groups of refugees, have been criticized by the UN and rights groups for failing to address the root causes of the crisis.

Lack of strong political will from the administration and regional powers aligning with Myanmar has hindered significant progress in solving the plight of the Rohingya people.

Bangladeshi Solidarity with Rohingya Brethren
The people of Bangladesh have shown remarkable solidarity with the Rohingya people throughout history, driven by a shared sense of religious identity, neighboring rights, and empathy rooted in their own history. During Bangladesh’s 1971 liberation war, millions of Bengalis sought refuge in India to escape violence, leaving a lasting impression of the importance of humanitarian aid in times of crisis. This shared experience fostered widespread public support for the displaced Rohingya, seen as brothers in faith.

Bangladeshi NGOs, civil society organizations, and ordinary citizens actively participated in emergency relief efforts, providing food, medical care, and shelter when Rohingya refugees fled to the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf border. Government agencies coordinated with international organizations, ensuring that refugees had access to essential services.

The humanitarian response extended beyond government actions, as local communities across the country helped the refugees despite economic pressures. Many Bangladeshis provided informal assistance, demonstrating personal kindness by donating food, clothing, and other essentials to their displaced neighbors.

Rohingya Migrations and Bangladesh-Myanmar Officials’ Negotiations for Repatriation

Efforts to resolve the Rohingya crisis have repeatedly faltered. Formal repatriation agreements between Bangladesh and Myanmar have been signed multiple times, but they failed to result in substantial returns. Myanmar’s military government agreed in principle to accept returning refugees, yet key obstacles—such as Myanmar’s refusal to grant Rohingya citizenship or ensure their safety and dignity—have blocked progress.

The 2017 mass exodus added significant complexity to the situation. Although a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Myanmar and Bangladesh, as well as with the UN, the lack of security guarantees and the Rohingya’s fears of returning to oppressive conditions deterred voluntary repatriation. Myanmar’s proposals to relocate returning refugees to temporary camps, rather than their original villages and homes, further fueled distrust among the Rohingya community.

The situation worsened after the 2021 military coup in Myanmar, which disrupted negotiations and dashed hopes for a sustainable solution. Myanmar’s junta regime intensified repression against various groups, making it unlikely that safe conditions for Rohingya returnees could be established anytime soon.

One matter that should be highlighted is the horrific crimes committed against the Rohingya under the leadership of Aung San Suu Kyi, which proved her vocal advocacy for change in the country was hypocritical and discriminatory, showing an unethical personality and losing a historic opportunity to solve many longstanding issues and take Myanmar towards development and peaceful coexistence among its people.

International efforts to push for repatriation through ASEAN and other platforms have also stalled, leaving the crisis unresolved.

Changes in Bangladesh’s Administration and Hope for the Rohingya

Political changes in Bangladesh’s government have raised expectations for potential policy shifts regarding the Rohingya crisis. Many new advisors and policymakers in the administration have previously expressed critical views on the need for stronger diplomatic efforts with Myanmar and have advocated for a sustainable resolutions. With growing domestic pressure—stemming from overcrowded refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar and economic strains—the current administration faces a pivotal moment to rethink its strategy toward the crisis.

The recent visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to Dhaka has added momentum to these efforts. Anwar’s close personal relationship with Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor, coupled with Malaysia’s long-standing support for the Rohingya cause, has bolstered hopes for renewed regional cooperation. Both countries share a vested interest in finding a durable solution to the crisis, as prolonged displacement impacts regional stability and economic development. Discussions during the visit have strengthened the possibility of aligning efforts through platforms like ASEAN and the OIC, generating optimism for meaningful progress in addressing the Rohingya’s plight.

Malaysia’s Role and Support for the Rohingya Cause

The Malay Muslim community and Malaysian NGOs have consistently led in advocating for the Rohingya, raising awareness, providing humanitarian aid, and offering refuge to displaced families. This solidarity reflects both religious empathy and regional responsibility. Malaysia has become one of the primary supporters of the Rohingya cause in Southeast Asia, hosting thousands of Rohingya refugees despite not being a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention.

Malaysian governments over the years have actively criticized Myanmar’s actions against the Rohingya, with leaders from Tun Abdul Razak to Mahathir Mohamad and Najib Razak calling out Myanmar on international platforms, including the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), demanding stronger action and justice. Malaysia’s stance is rooted not only in humanitarian principles but also in concerns over regional stability, as the prolonged displacement of the Rohingya affects both migration patterns and security dynamics across Southeast Asia.

Malaysia’s refugee policy, while challenged by public pressure, has provided a lifeline for Rohingya migrants seeking safety. Malaysian NGOs and civil society continue to supply essential aid, including food, healthcare, and education.

Through regional platforms such as ASEAN, Malaysia has pressed for diplomatic solutions, though the lack of consensus within ASEAN has limited concrete action. Still, Malaysia remains a crucial voice in advocating for Rohingya rights, emphasizing the need for justice and sustainable solutions through regional and international cooperation.

Turning statements into actionable policies has proven challenging. Diplomatic hurdles, particularly within ASEAN’s principle of non-interference, have restricted Malaysia’s ability to push for robust solutions. Malaysia has long advocated for humanitarian relief and regional engagement on the Rohingya issue, yet geopolitical factors have often diluted the impact. For example, efforts through ASEAN have been complicated by Myanmar’s resistance and the reluctance of powerful regional allies like China and India to apply pressure on the junta.

The consistent stance of Malaysian leaders underscores moral support and advocacy, but efforts have often been hindered by geopolitical realities, leaving the Rohingya crisis unresolved at the diplomatic level.

PM Anwar’s Unique Commitment to Human Rights and Minority Support

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is recognized for his lifelong dedication to human rights, justice, fairness, and advocacy for oppressed communities—a commitment rooted in his early years. During his tenure as president of the Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (ABIM) from 1974 to 1982, Anwar led impactful campaigns for global Muslim minorities, initiating humanitarian efforts and engaging early with the plight of the Rohingya. His leadership within ABIM established a foundation for activism and peace advocacy, embodying his deep-seated values of justice and minority protection.

Anwar’s government today embodies these values through a proactive stance on both national and regional fronts, including a focus on addressing the Rohingya crisis. During a recent visit to Dhaka, Anwar highlighted the importance of international cooperation and assured Bangladesh of Malaysia’s steadfast support. His personal connection with Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus has further bolstered hopes for regional collaboration on the Rohingya issue. This engagement underscores Anwar’s commitment to utilizing regional platforms like ASEAN to tackle long-standing humanitarian challenges, with the Rohingya crisis being a prominent focus.

Anwar’s past statements consistently reaffirm Malaysia’s responsibility to advocate for the Rohingya. He has stressed the importance of regional peace and justice, asserting that the Rohingya crisis cannot be overlooked. In diplomatic exchanges, he has encouraged international partners to pressure Myanmar to establish conditions for the safe and dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees. This strategic advocacy, grounded in Anwar’s philosophy of justice, has rekindled hope for a holistic solution to the crisis.

Anwar’s dedication to human dignity and rights continues to shape Malaysia’s policies and diplomatic initiatives, reinforcing the nation’s leadership in addressing one of Southeast Asia’s most pressing humanitarian issues.

Malaysia’s Role as Chair of ASEAN and Opportunities for Resolution
With Malaysia preparing to chair ASEAN in 2025, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s influence could be instrumental in advancing meaningful regional solutions to the Rohingya crisis. The upcoming chairmanship offers a strategic moment to revitalize ASEAN’s efforts in addressing the Rohingya issue. Historically, ASEAN’s engagement with Myanmar has been constrained by the bloc’s non-interference principle, limiting its capacity to hold member states accountable for internal conflicts. However, Malaysia’s leadership under Anwar Ibrahim introduces a potential shift, as the country has consistently championed the rights of the Rohingya and emphasized the importance of regional peace and stability.

Anwar Ibrahim’s recent diplomatic initiatives, such as his visit to Bangladesh, highlight Malaysia’s commitment to fostering multilateral cooperation on the Rohingya crisis. As ASEAN chair, Malaysia could leverage this position to bolster dialogue and coordination within the bloc, urging Myanmar to create conditions conducive to the safe, voluntary, and dignified return of Rohingya refugees. Furthermore, Malaysia’s influence could drive ASEAN toward deeper engagement with international partners, including the OIC and the UN, to amplify diplomatic pressure on Myanmar.

Beyond diplomatic outreach, Malaysia’s chairmanship provides an opportunity to reassess ASEAN’s approach to humanitarian crises, potentially expanding the bloc’s capacity to address crises with humanitarian or security implications. If successful, Malaysia’s leadership could establish a precedent for a more proactive ASEAN policy framework, one that emphasizes accountability and support for displaced communities like the Rohingya. However, navigating this leadership will require Malaysia to balance competing geopolitical interests within ASEAN—particularly from member states with ties to Myanmar’s military regime, such as Thailand and Cambodia—to ensure that collective action remains effective and undiluted.

This chairmanship represents a vital window for Malaysia to consolidate regional efforts, build consensus, and advocate for sustainable solutions that uphold justice, security, and human dignity for the Rohingya people.

Challenges Faced by Malaysia in Managing the Rohingya Crisis
Malaysia’s longstanding support for the Rohingya has increasingly posed economic, social, and political challenges due to the crisis’s prolonged nature. Hosting thousands of Rohingya refugees, Malaysia grapples with resource limitations that hinder sustainable support. Its non-signatory status to the 1951 Refugee Convention complicates matters further, as refugees lack access to legal protections, formal education, and employment, heightening their vulnerability and dependence on aid.

Economic Strain and Public Pressure
The growing refugee population has strained Malaysia’s economy. With minimal international aid, local NGOs and the government shoulder the costs of healthcare, shelter, and essential services. This economic impact has fueled public discontent, as some Malaysians view the influx of refugees as a strain on jobs and social services.

Public Backlash and Xenophobia
Public pressure against refugees has intensified, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when misinformation spread widely. Calls for stricter immigration policies and anti-refugee sentiments on social media have complicated the government’s humanitarian stance, making it a delicate political balancing act for Malaysia.

Policy Limitations and the Need for Regional Solutions
Without formal refugee integration policies, Malaysia’s approach to the Rohingya remains limited to short-term humanitarian aid. The lack of regional solutions within ASEAN, constrained by the bloc’s non-interference principle, has further intensified Malaysia’s challenges. Balancing domestic pressures, limited resources, and humanitarian commitments is essential for Malaysia to maintain its leadership on the Rohingya issue. Malaysia’s upcoming role as ASEAN chair in 2025 could be pivotal, relying on regional cooperation and international support to address these complexities.

 Golden Opportunity: Joint Leadership by Anwar and Yunus
The collaboration between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus presents a rare opportunity to address the Rohingya crisis through coordinated efforts on regional and global platforms. Both leaders bring significant influence and experience to the table, which could help galvanize stronger international action.

PM Anwar Ibrahim’s track record in human rights advocacy and regional diplomacy aligns with Dr. Yunus’s extensive international network and moral leadership, particularly on humanitarian issues. Their close personal relationship adds to the effectiveness of their joint initiatives, fostering trust and collaboration. As Malaysia prepares to lead ASEAN in 2025, this partnership has the potential to steer ASEAN toward a more active role in resolving the crisis, balancing diplomatic pressure with humanitarian support.

At the global level, Anwar and Yunus can leverage their influence within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to advocate for legal and diplomatic action against Myanmar. Through forums like international courts, they could push for accountability regarding human rights violations, urging Myanmar to ensure the safe and dignified repatriation of the Rohingya refugees. Their joint leadership offers an opportunity to align regional efforts with global human rights mechanisms, compelling Myanmar to address the root causes of the crisis and recognize the citizenship and rights of the Rohingya community.

This partnership underscores a golden opportunity for transformative action. By uniting diplomatic engagement with international legal avenues, Anwar and Yunus can mobilize support from global stakeholders on Rohingya crisis such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Pakistan and Indonesia, increase pressure on Myanmar’s military junta, and potentially unlock pathways for sustainable solutions to one of the most complex humanitarian crises in Southeast Asia.

Looking Forward: Hope for the Rohingya Community
The Rohingya people, who have endured decades of persecution and displacement, are hopeful that the collaboration between PM Anwar Ibrahim and Dr. Muhammad Yunus can lead to meaningful change. Their leadership represents a rare convergence of influence, empathy, and political will—offering the potential to shift the dynamics surrounding the crisis. Anwar’s advocacy for human rights and Yunus’s global reputation for humanitarian work raise expectations that the Rohingya may finally see progress toward relief, dignity, and justice.

This partnership brings a renewed focus on regional and international cooperation, especially through ASEAN and the OIC, encouraging broader engagement from stakeholders. Rohingya refugees, currently confined to overcrowded camps in Cox’s Bazar, look forward to a future where safe and voluntary repatriation to Myanmar becomes a reality. With efforts aimed at securing ethnic and citizenship rights and protecting human dignity, this collaboration offers a glimmer of hope in what has been an otherwise dire and protracted humanitarian crisis – an ongoing genocide.

Although challenges remain—particularly in Myanmar’s political instability—Anwar and Yunus’s commitment to justice and peace raises the possibility of long-term solutions that can restore hope and provide the security and freedom the Rohingya people deserve.

Author Bio : Farid Abu Ahmed, Independent writer from Malaysia (Farid_dcb@yahoo.com)

* This represents the writer’s own opinion only it doesn’t necessarily reflect organizational stance.*