Malaysia has announced that the first phase of its voluntary repatriation programme for Myanmar nationals will begin on September 29, 2026.
According to Malaysia’s Home Ministry, 1,476 Myanmar nationals identified and verified by the Myanmar government are expected to return in the first phase. The programme is part of a broader agreement under which up to 5,000 Myanmar nationals will be repatriated in stages.
Repatriation by Sea
The Malaysian government said the first group will be transported using two Myanmar Navy ships and one hospital ship.
Authorities will continue verifying the identities, nationalities and security backgrounds of people held at immigration detention centres before determining who is eligible and willing to return voluntarily.
Thousands Still Under Screening
As of August 15, Malaysia had 10,388 Myanmar nationals in immigration detention centres, although officials stressed that not all of them are refugees.
The Immigration Department is working with police to complete identity and security checks, with the process expected to continue through the fourth quarter of the year.
Programme Covers 5,000 People
Malaysia has agreed with Myanmar to process 5,000 people for voluntary repatriation. The government has said that individuals will be identified and screened before being considered for return.
Malaysia has also been working on a separate refugee registration process for thousands of Myanmar nationals, primarily ethnic Rohingya.
Safety Remains a Key Concern
The repatriation plan has attracted attention because of the continuing conflict and security concerns in Myanmar.
Malaysia has previously stated that it would not return refugees if their lives were at risk or if they could face persecution after returning.
