By Amanda L
KUCHING, Oct 26: Sarawak has reiterated its position on the entry of Rohingya refugees, maintaining that any decision must take into account the State’s interests, security and existing policies.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Sarawak’s position remained unchanged, citing the State’s immigration powers to regulate the entry of foreign nationals.
“We do not have Rohingyas here because we rejected them from the beginning. We have no problem because they are not here.
“If they were here, that would be a problem,” he told reporters after officiating the Sarawak Urban Forum 2.0 (SUF 2.0) at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) today.
He said Sarawak would continue to exercise its immigration powers based on the circumstances and purpose of entry, including for economic activities and employment.
“For those who come with an economic purpose or to work as foreign workers, their entry will be regulated,” he said.
Sarawak has immigration authority over entry into the State, which it exercises alongside applicable federal laws and immigration arrangements. —DayakDaily
