MSF urges govt to allow safe disembarkation of boat carrying refugees, provide healthcare access

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 10 — Doctors Without Borders (MSF) today urged the new Malaysian government to provide safe disembarkation of a boat carrying Rohingya refugees in order to prevent loss of lives.

MSF said that the refugees suffering the effects of a regional humanitarian crisis and fleeing to seek safety should be protected upon disembarkation.

“MSF is aware of one or more boats carrying some 160 refugees, most likely Rohingya people, floating at sea near Malaysian waters. Some people on board have reportedly died due to lack of food or water.

“While MSF has no information about the specific health needs of people on the boat, it is very likely that provision of life-saving medical assistance will be required as deaths have been reported,” it said in a statement today.

MSF said that the refugees should be allowed access to healthcare and other support services must be guaranteed.

“Safe disembarkation prevents the loss of lives of the Rohingya who are already afflicted by cumulative consequences of trauma, conflict and discrimination due to the denial of citizenship in Myanmar for decades.

“In addition, Rohingya are subjected to violence targeting them in Myanmar and in other countries of asylum,” MSF said.

MSF also urged on governments in the region to show solidarity with the Rohingya and intensify efforts to address the refugee crisis at its origin so that the Rohingya do not need to risk their lives to seek protection elsewhere.

“In the meantime, the Rohingya people and other refugees should be allowed to live in safety and dignity in countries of asylum, including Malaysia, until the crisis is resolved,” it said

MSF said that Malaysia’s calls for action on the crisis in Myanmar are constructive and much needed.

“As MSF, we are present in Myanmar and witness the continued persecution of Rohingya still in Rakhine.

“This is the root cause of the crisis and until it is addressed, people should be able to seek protection in Malaysia and in other countries in the region. MSF stands ready to support the Malaysian Government with safe,” it added.