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.

News
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'

Reform MP Danny Kruger has spoken of the need for Britain to once more assert itself as a  country with a long and rich Christian Heritage.

400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions
400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions

Sex selective abortions appear to be taking place within the Indian community, data suggests.

Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity
Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity

Community pantries across the UK have recorded their one millionth visit, as new research suggests the membership-based food model is helping thousands of households reduce food insecurity, cut costs and prevent them from falling into extreme hardship.

Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India
Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India

India has witnessed a blend of joyful Christmas celebrations in many parts of the country, alongside reports of hate, hostility, and attacks on Christians this season, particularly in northern and central regions.