Rohingya Boat Tragedy in Malaysia 7 Dead, 13 Rescued Safely

A tragic maritime disaster unfolded off the coast of Malaysia after a boat carrying hundreds of migrants from Myanmar capsized near Langkawi. Authorities confirmed that seven bodies have been recovered while 13 people were rescued alive, as search and rescue operations continue in the region.

According to Malaysian maritime officials, the vessel had departed from Buthidaung in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, carrying about 300 migrants, many of whom are believed to be Rohingya Muslims fleeing decades of persecution. Preliminary investigations suggest that as the vessel approached Malaysia, it split into three smaller boats. One of those boats reportedly sank near Tarutao Island in southern Thailand, causing passengers to drift into Malaysian waters.

The exact timing and location of the accident remain unclear, and authorities have yet to determine the fate of the other two boats.

Local media cited Malaysian police confirming that some of the rescued survivors were Rohingya refugees. The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) said the bodies of six victims were found on Sunday, while three more survivors were pulled from the water. The search area has been widened, and efforts will continue into Monday.

Officials have expressed growing concern over the increasing activity of cross-border syndicates that exploit vulnerable migrants and refugees by facilitating dangerous sea crossings. These risky journeys, often carried out in overcrowded and unsafe boats, have led to numerous fatalities in recent years.

The UN refugee agency has urged regional governments to strengthen rescue operations and take collective action to prevent further loss of life. Data from the UNHCR shows that around 5,200 Rohingya refugees have attempted treacherous maritime journeys this year alone, with nearly 600 people reported missing or dead.

In January, Malaysian authorities turned away two boats carrying nearly 300 Rohingya refugees attempting to enter the country illegally. Despite Malaysia’s predominantly Malay Muslim population, the government has struggled to balance humanitarian acceptance with growing concerns over mass migration. Currently, Malaysia hosts approximately 117,670 Rohingya refugees, making up about 59% of its total refugee population.

This latest tragedy once again highlights the urgent humanitarian crisis faced by the Rohingya and the need for coordinated regional action to ensure safer migration routes and prevent future disasters.