Update on Situation of Rohingya People in Myanmar

Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) if he can provide the latest update on the situation of the Rohingya people in Myanmar who have been forcefully displaced; (b) what is the Myanmar government's latest stand on this matter in view of their efforts at social and economic reforms; and (c) what is Singapore's response and ASEAN's collective response to the situation.

Page: 117

The Myanmar government has introduced significant political and economic reforms. It is also tackling longstanding challenges like national reconciliation with the ethnic minorities, and rebuilding peace and stability in Rakhine State. The rehabilitation of Rakhine State will take time, and the Myanmar government's continued willingness to cooperate with the United Nations (UN), major donor countries and other development partners to respond to the humanitarian needs in Rakhine State is a step in the right direction.

Inter-communal relations in Rakhine State have a complicated history. There is no quick fix – patience, restraint and time are required to restore law and order, address humanitarian needs, and build trust among the different stakeholders and communities.

At the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar during the 25th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council on 17 March 2014, ASEAN released a Joint Statement which, inter alia, welcomed the steps taken by the Myanmar government to address the Rohingya issue. In particular, ASEAN noted the Myanmar government’s cooperation with UN agencies and non-governmental organisations to address the humanitarian needs of the affected persons and communities in a non-discriminatory and impartial manner.