13/06/2026

SATURDAY | JUNE 13, 2026

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Rule of law to govern Rohingya refugee issue: PM o ‘Problem remains humanitarian challenge with no easy solution, particularly amid instability in Myanmar’

Measures to tackle economic colonisation by foreigners PUTRAJAYA: The government is stepping up efforts to address economic colonisation by non citizens that could affect national interests and the competitiveness of local businesses. A meeting of the Special Task Force on Agency Reform (STAR), chaired by Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar on Thursday, focused on the issue. A statement by STAR said the meeting reviewed a Finance Ministry presentation on business activities by foreigners that do not comply with government rules. “This matter requires more integrated action to ensure compliance with the law, protect consumer safety and curb shadow economy activities, which refer to unregistered business activities operating outside of proper regulation,” said the statement. It added that the measure is important for protecting local entrepreneurs’ competitiveness and for building a business environment that is fair, open and conducive to the country’s economic growth, Bernama reported. The meeting also examined ways to improve the Customs Department’s management of investigations and vehicle exhibits to tackle asset dumping and storage congestion. The statement said the move is important for speeding up case resolution, optimising storage space, reducing asset loss and ensuring that exhibits are managed quickly, efficiently and with integrity. STAR said the meeting also focused on the proposed placement of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students in government research institutions to develop future talent in line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recommendation during the recent National TVET Day 2026. “This initiative aims to bridge the gap between current skills and the needs of strategic sectors, particularly in new technology fields such as artificial intelligence, energy transition, green transition and applied cryptology.” IRB introduces e-Derma system PUTRAJAYA: All new applications for approval under Subsection 44(6) of the Income Tax Act 1967 involving institutions or organisations must be submitted through the e-Derma system from June 15. In a statement yesterday, the Inland Revenue Board (IRB) said the move is part of its efforts to expand digital service delivery and improve the efficiency of reviewing and approving tax exemption applications. According to the IRB, the e-Derma system allows applications to be submitted online at any time without the need to visit its offices or submit physical documents. However, new applications under Subsection 44(6) involving funds or Institutions/Organisations/Funds represented by tax representatives or tax agents must continue to be submitted manually together with supporting documents for the time being. The statement added that the e-Derma system would be extended to this category at a later phase. In addition to new applications, the platform also facilitates requests for extensions of approval periods, submission of documents such as Audited Financial Statements and Self-Review Forms as well as amendments to Institutions/Organisations/Funds-related information. – Bernama

during his recent visit and discussions in Japan. He added that all communities in Malaysia, including Rohingya residents, must comply with national laws and regulations. “They must follow the laws of our country. Buildings, businesses, everything must be in accordance with regulations. If not, we will have to take action.” He said enforcement would continue against any violation, including non-compliant activities and putting up of illegal structures. Anwar said the Cabinet has been briefed and relevant agencies had already discussed enforcement actions. The issue of illegal settlements and unauthorised structures involving Rohingya communities in Selangor has come under renewed scrutiny following viral videos and ongoing enforcement operations by local authorities, including demolition works and investigations by multiple agencies since 2016. Anwar urged Malaysians to maintain humanitarian values while respecting the rule of law. “Especially among Muslims who are affected, we must uphold humanity. But at the same time, do not break the law in addressing this problem,” he said.

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will continue to uphold the rule of law in addressing issues involving Rohingya refugees while balancing humanitarian considerations and enforcement action against illegal activities, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said the Rohingya issue remains a humanitarian challenge with no easy solution, particularly amid instability in Myanmar and the lack of viable repatriation options. “This is a humanitarian issue. People talk about sending them back (home), but where do we send them back to? “We have problems with the Myanmar government that is still in turmoil,” he said after Friday prayers at Masjid Al Hidayah yesterday. Anwar said Malaysia had engaged Myanmar authorities on the matter, including holding two rounds of discussions in which Kuala Lumpur Ű BY HARITH KAMAL AND FAUZI JASNI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

raised two key requests. “First, humanitarian assistance must be ensured so that it benefits all. That was agreed to. “Second, stop the oppression and crimes against the people of Myanmar, including the Rohingya and Rakhine communities,” he said, adding that conditions appeared to have improved slightly but remained fragile. He said Malaysia is still working with regional partners to explore third-country resettlement options and possible repatriation pathways but progress has been limited. “We are still facing problems because we are trying to find ways to send them to third countries or return them, but it has not been successful. “This is not only Malaysia’s issue. Bangladesh also hosts millions of refugees, including in Cox’s Bazar.” Anwar said he had also raised the matter with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi

According to Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry, Malaysia remains Thailand’s second-largest source market for international visitors. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

Malaysian tourist arrivals to Thailand remain stable PATTAYA: Thailand expects Malaysian tourist arrivals to remain stable despite rising travel costs amid volatility in global energy prices, as many Malaysians continue to visit the kingdom by road rather than by air. According to Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Ministry, Malaysia remains Thailand’s second largest source market for international visitors. As of June 8, the kingdom had recorded 1.84 million Malaysian arrivals, behind China with 2.39 million visitors.

haul trips. “People who previously travelled to long-haul destinations are cutting back and choosing destinations closer to home. Thailand continues to be viewed as a value-for-money destination for travellers who still have spending power and wish to take holidays.” Pattaraanong said rising living costs had prompted some residents along the Thailand Malaysia border to cut back on frequent weekend trips to Thailand. “Instead of travelling twice a month, some are now coming once a month or even once every two months. As a result, overall visitor numbers have been affected slightly.” Thailand is targeting 33 million international arrivals in 2026. – Bernama

Tourism Authority of Thailand International Marketing (Asia and the South Pacific) deputy governor Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai said rising energy prices following tensions in West Asia that disrupted global energy markets had increased airfares and reduced flight frequencies. “There is an impact on prices, especially airfares, and some flight reductions. However, this has not significantly affected Malaysian tourists, many of whom choose to travel overland rather than by air,” she said on the sidelines of Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2026 on Thursday.

Pattaraanong said concerns over rising fuel prices were more pronounced at the beginning of the global energy crisis but Malaysian travel demand has remained relatively stable. She said broader economic pressures, inflation and higher living costs are affecting tourism markets globally, including Thailand and Malaysia. She added that regional destinations were benefiting as travellers increasingly opted for short-haul holidays over more expensive long