KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — A tragic incident occurred last week when a boat carrying around 300 migrants from Myanmar capsized in the Indian Ocean, close to the border between Thailand and Malaysia. Rescue efforts revealed at least one body recovered from the water, with 10 individuals saved and many others reported missing, according to officials on Sunday.
While the exact location and timing of the capsizing are yet to be clarified, a Malaysian official indicated that the vessel likely overturned in Thai waters. This situation underscores the growing activity of cross-border syndicates that exploit vulnerable migrants as they attempt to navigate dangerous sea routes. Among the survivors are Rohingya Muslims, a group that has faced severe persecution in Myanmar for decades.
First Adm. Romli Mustafa from the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency stated that early investigations suggest the boat had departed from Buthidaung in Myanmar’s Rakhine state three days before it sank. The agency commenced a search and rescue operation on Saturday after several survivors were discovered drifting near Malaysia’s northern resort island of Langkawi. Unfortunately, the body of a woman, believed to be from Myanmar, was also found in the sea.
Including a man from Bangladesh, at least 10 people were rescued from this incident. Romli expressed hope that additional victims may be located as the operation progresses. Additionally, Malaysian state police chief Adzli Abu Shah mentioned that it is likely the vessel sank in Thai waters before the survivors made their way into Malaysian territory.
In January, Malaysian authorities faced criticism for turning away two boats carrying nearly 300 individuals believed to be Rohingya refugees attempting to enter the country illegally. Malaysia, which predominantly has a Malay Muslim population, has been regarded as a common destination for the Rohingya. While the country has accepted some Rohingya based on humanitarian needs in the past, there is a concern about managing a potential mass influx.
Currently, there are approximately 117,670 Rohingya refugees registered with the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees in Malaysia, making up about 59% of the total refugee population. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by many in the region as they seek safety and better living conditions.