Malaysia’s Dark Reality: The Abduction of a Myanmar Refugee Activist

Malaysia: Myanmar Refugee Activist Abducted Urgently Locate, Ensure Safety of Thuzar Maung, Family Members

Introduction

On July 4, 2023, Thuzar Maung, a prominent Myanmar refugee activist, along with her husband and three children, were abducted from their residence in Ampang Jaya, Kuala Lumpur. The Malaysian government is urged to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident to locate and ensure the safety of Thuzar Maung and her family. Thuzar Maung is known for her outspoken support of Myanmar‘s pro-democracy movement and her work in advocating for refugee and migrant rights in Malaysia.

The Abduction

According to reports from witnesses and CCTV footage, unidentified men entered the gated community where Thuzar Maung’s family lives on July 4. Claiming to be police officers, they abducted Thuzar Maung, her husband, and their three children. CCTV footage captured the license plate of the car used by the abductors, which Malaysian police have confirmed to be fake. Thuzar Maung’s family members’ phones were immediately turned off, and no calls have gone through since the incident.

Risk to Thuzar Maung and Her Family

Human Rights Watch has expressed concern that Thuzar Maung and her family were targeted in a planned operation and are at grave risk. As a vocal critic of Myanmar‘s junta, which took power through a military coup in 2021, Thuzar Maung’s activism has attracted attention and admiration from many, but has also made her a potential target for those who oppose her advocacy. The fear is that her abduction could be linked to her activism and her efforts to expose abuses by the military junta.

Thuzar Maung’s Activism

Thuzar Maung is a long-time advocate for democracy in Myanmar and refugee and migrant rights in Malaysia. She chairs the Myanmar Muslim Refugee Community and the Myanmar Migrant Workers Committee, working closely with Myanmar‘s opposition National Unity Government. With over 93,000 followers on Facebook, she has used her platform to highlight the abuses committed by Myanmar‘s military junta.

Dangers Faced by Myanmar Activists

The abduction of Thuzar Maung raises concerns about the safety of Myanmar activists, even when they seek asylum in other countries. The Malaysian government, along with foreign governments and organizations, must take action to protect activists who speak out against the military junta and ensure that they can continue their work without fear.

Call for Urgent Action

Human Rights Watch, along with Thuzar Maung’s colleagues and friends, calls for swift action from the Malaysian government to locate the abducted family and ensure their safety. The police in Kuala Lumpur have opened an investigation into the case, but more needs to be done to expedite the process and identify the perpetrators. Additionally, foreign governments should press Malaysian authorities to uncover the family’s location and offer support in the investigation.

The Responsibility of the Malaysian Government

As a host country for refugees, Malaysia has an obligation to protect and ensure the safety of those seeking asylum within its borders. The abduction of Thuzar Maung and her family highlights the critical need for the Malaysian government to prioritize the investigation and take all necessary steps to locate the family and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Conclusion

The abduction of Thuzar Maung, a prominent Myanmar refugee activist, from her residence in Malaysia is a grave concern for human rights organizations and advocates for democracy. It is essential for the Malaysian government to swiftly and thoroughly investigate the incident, identifying and apprehending the abductors, to ensure the safety of Thuzar Maung and her family. Furthermore, the international community must stand in solidarity with Thuzar Maung and other activists who are risking their lives to advocate for justice, democracy, and human rights in Myanmar. The protection and support of these activists are crucial in building a brighter future for the people of Myanmar.

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