While the government did not have any intention of interfering in Myanmar’s domestic affairs, Zahid said, no Asean member country should be allowed to get away with such atrocities, especially when other countries, Malaysia specifically, had to carry the burden of caring for the Rohingya who take refuge here.
“We should not allow this to happen because it is an action undertaken by a state rather than individuals or groups,” said Zahid in an interview with FMT at the Putra World Trade Centre yesterday.
“We don’t want to be inhumane, but Myanmar is the source of this problem. They should recognise the Rohingya despite the latter professing a different religion, or being of a different race.”
The Rohingya, residing in the impoverished Rakhine state, are viewed by many in Buddhist-majority Myanmar as illegal immigrants although they have lived there for generations.
They are denied citizenship and smothered by restrictions on their movement and work.
Zahid said the Myanmar government should have been more sympathetic to their plight, especially as Aung San Suu Kyi was the recipient of a Nobel Peace Prize.
“But since there is no peace in the country, the award can be questioned by the international community. The award was given before that person (Aung) had power.
“Once she had power, she did otherwise (not promoting peace) and that is disappointing.”
Zahid said to show their outrage over the massacre, he, along with Prime Minister Najib Razak and PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang, would hold a major gathering on Dec 4.
He called on all Muslim-based parties and NGOs to participate in the gathering that would be held at a location to be decided later.
“It’s not about our differences. It’s about addressing the issue in Myanmar. This rally is held in the spirit of togetherness.”
Asked if he was concerned that this move might affect diplomatic ties between Malaysia and Myanmar, Zahid said: “Why would it (be affected)?
“We now have to accommodate the Rohingya and work with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees as well as the International Organisation for Migrants.
“It’s not that we want to push away the responsibility, but Myanmar is the source country of this problem.”