Malaysia urged to stop sending Rohingya back to Myanmar

KUALA LUMPUR — A group of 166 civil society organizations is calling on Malaysia to halt plans to send Rohingya refugees back to Myanmar. The groups said they have "grave concern" about the repatriation plan. They warned that the refugees could face violent persecution and forced conscription if they return. Myanmar has been in crisis since a military coup in 2021. The Rohingya, a mostly Muslim minority, have faced decades of discrimination there. Many fled to Malaysia and other countries to seek safety.