PUTRAJAYA, Feb 1 — Malaysia views with serious concern the developments in Myanmar where a military coup was reported early Monday, with State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, President U Win Myint and other senior officials detained in the capital city of Naypyidaw.
In a statement today, Malaysia called on the Myanmar military and all relevant parties to give utmost priority to the maintenance of peace and security in the country, uphold the rule of law, and resolve any electoral discrepancies through established legal mechanisms and dialogue in a peaceful manner.
“Malaysia supports the continuation of discussions among Myanmar’s leaders to avoid adverse consequences to the people and state of Myanmar, especially during the current and difficult Covid-19 pandemic situation,” the Foreign Ministry said.
International media reported that Myanmar’s powerful military had taken control of the country in a coup and declared a state of emergency for a year, followed by the detention of political leaders and other senior government officials on claims of alleged voting irregularities in the country’s election in November 2020.
The Foreign Ministry advised all Malaysians in Myanmar to remain calm, vigilant, and continue to adhere to the safety advisories of the local authorities.
For consular assistance and emergency matters, the Embassy of Malaysia in Yangon can be contacted at +95 9 772 220 230 or email [email protected].
Meanwhile, Malaysian Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim described the recent developments in Myanmar as alarming and troubling and urged all parties to respect the constitution and the mandate of the people.
“The recent actions by the military have undermined the tentative steps that the people of Myanmar have taken towards democracy.
“Asean and world leaders must stand united and call for the immediate release of the detained political leaders and the reinstatement of the rule of law in Myanmar. After much struggle the people of Myanmar emerged with a constitution and basic electoral freedom,” he said in a statement today.
The Port Dickson MP said despite the fact that the mistreatment and human rights abuse towards the Rohingya people were condoned by the previous administration, Myanmar was still a young and viable democracy with much potential.
The Malaysian Bar also said it is deeply perturbed by the military coup in Myanmar.
“Democracy has been trampled once again by the military and is an absolute affront to the rule of law and human rights.
“We call on the government of Malaysia to condemn these acts that run afoul of a modern and democratic society, and to call upon the Myanmar military to release all governmental officials and civil society leaders,” said its president Salim Bashir in a statement.
He said its thoughts and prayers were with the people of Myanmar in these precarious times.
“The Malaysian Bar will do whatever we can to support them in their struggle for democracy and freedom,” he added.
— Bernama
