Malaysia says Myanmar violence against Muslim Rohingya 'ethnic cleansing'

Malaysia has issued a strongly-worded statement on what it describes as "ethnic cleansing" against Myanmar's Muslim Rohingya minority.

The statement was released ahead of a planned solidarity march in Kuala Lumpur due to be attended by Prime Minister Najib Razak.

It is the latest criticism from Muslim-majority Malaysia against Myanmar as violence continues to trouble northern Rakhine state. Four years ago, the state saw violent clashes between Buddhists and Muslims, which left hundreds dead.

"The fact that only one particular ethnicity is being driven out is by definition ethnic cleansing," Malaysia's foreign ministry said in a statement.

"This practice must stop, and must be stopped immediately in order to bring back security and stability to the Southeast Asian region."

Hundreds of people have crossed the border into Bangladesh, with some reporting abuses by security forces, and Malaysia claims that the number of Rohingya within its own borders as well as its neighbors' has made the violence an "international matter".

But Myanmar has played down Malaysia's concerns, saying on Friday that it should respect sovereign affairs and adhere to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' (ASEAN) policy of non-interference in other member countries' internal affairs.

Malaysia summoned Myanmar's ambassador last week to address the treatment of the Rohingya and the national soccer team's friendly under-22 matches with Myanmar were called off in protest.

Saturday's solidarity march is expected to be attended by senior government leaders and led by Najib.

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
Global Christianity faces major challenges in 2026 despite signs of growth, new report finds
Global Christianity faces major challenges in 2026 despite signs of growth, new report finds

A new global study has highlighted fresh developments affecting Christianity worldwide, with researchers pointing to demographic shifts, persecution and urbanisation as some of the key areas of focus for church leaders.

Anxious wait for pastor prosecuted for preaching outside hospital
Anxious wait for pastor prosecuted for preaching outside hospital

A retired pastor who was prosecuted after preaching a sermon outside a hospital in Northern Ireland faces an anxious wait to find out the verdict in his case. 

Why Raye is right to choose a Bible app over Instagram
Why Raye is right to choose a Bible app over Instagram

In a world obsessed with being seen, heard and validated online, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Raye has made a refreshingly countercultural decision: stepping away from social media and leaning into Scripture instead.

Over 10,000 sign petition in support of church fighting outreach ban
Over 10,000 sign petition in support of church fighting outreach ban

The church has the support of Reform leader Nigel Farage.