Malaysia is gravely concerned over the tragic situation in Myanmar since the military coup that took place on 1 February 2021. I am appalled by the persistent use of lethal violence against unarmed civilians which has resulted in a high number of deaths and injuries, as well as suffering across the nation. There is no question about it – the use of live ammunition against peaceful protests is unacceptable. This deplorable situation must stop immediately.

On behalf of the people of Malaysia, I convey my deepest and sincerest condolences to all the people of Myanmar who have lost their loved ones, and who have become victims as a consequence of the current political crisis.

The military leadership in Myanmar is strongly urged to change its course, and choose a path towards peaceful solutions. Violence begets violence, and the nation’s future may be plunged into irreversible destruction.

We in Malaysia, and the larger ASEAN community, cannot afford to see our brotherly nation of Myanmar become so destabilised at the hands of a selected few, who seek to promote their own vested interests.

Once again, Malaysia repeats our consistent call for all concerned parties to work together towards a peaceful settlement of this crisis. We will continue to support an inclusive dialogue for a political transition, and urge all parties to return to the negotiating table, remedy the crisis and avoid any further escalation of tensions.

In this regard, I also call for the prompt and unconditional release of political leaders, including State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Win Myint, who have been arbitrarily detained since 1 February 2021.

It is clear that the current political struggle only victimises the common people of Myanmar. This has no place in the values of our beliefs, conscience and culture. It contradicts the principles enshrined in the ASEAN Charter, which we in ASEAN commit ourselves to promote and protect so that peace, security and prosperity for our region is guaranteed.

I strongly support the statement by President Joko Widodo of the Republic of Indonesia today, and his call for the convening of an emergency ASEAN Summit to address the situation in Myanmar. Only through an open, sincere, and honest discussion will we be able to enhance ASEAN’s role to assist Myanmar in finding a way out of the current crisis expediently.

Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Muhyiddin Yassin
19 March 2021
Putrajaya

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