Terengganu to act based on facts, not perception over Rohingya presence, says exco

KUALA TERENGGANU, June 13 — The Terengganu government says it will not act hastily over concerns about the growing presence of the Rohingya community in the state, but will instead address the issue in an orderly, fact-based manner and in accordance with the law.

State Local Government, Housing and Health Committee chairman Datuk Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah said such an approach is important to preserve community safety, public order and social harmony.

However, he said the state government understands public concerns over the presence of the Rohingya community in several areas of the state.

“Issues involving foreign nationals encompass various aspects, including entry, travel documents, work permits, individual status and action against illegal immigrants, all of which fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government through the relevant authorised agencies.

“Within the scope of the state government and local authorities, the actions that can be taken are focused on local compliance matters such as business licensing, premises requirements, environmental cleanliness, public nuisance, and the use or construction of premises that do not comply with regulations. The state government will not act hastily or based solely on perceptions,” he said in a statement today.

Nevertheless, Wan Sukairi said the state government will strengthen coordination among agencies, including the Immigration Department, the National Security Council and the police, to facilitate information-sharing, monitoring and coordinated enforcement actions in accordance with their respective jurisdictions.

He said the state government acknowledges that enforcement activities on the ground face their own challenges, including issues related to document verification, communication, personnel safety and jurisdictional limitations among agencies.

“This requires a more structured, cautious and effective approach to ensure that any action taken does not deviate from legal provisions. Should there be any violations involving business premises or unlawful activities, appropriate action will be taken by the relevant agencies.

“Therefore, members of the public with information are urged to report it to the authorities and refrain from taking matters into their own hands or spreading unverified information that could trigger unrest,” he said. — Bernama