KUALA LUMPIUR — The Terengganu government has said it will not rush into action over concerns regarding the increasing presence of the Rohingya community in the state, stressing instead a structured, fact-based approach in line with the law.
State Local Government, Housing and Health Committee chairman Datuk Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah said such an approach was necessary to safeguard public safety, maintain order and preserve social harmony, Bernama reported.
He acknowledged, however, growing public concern over the presence of the Rohingya community in several parts 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.
Wan Sukairi added that the state government would strengthen coordination among enforcement agencies, including the Immigration Department, the National Security Council and the police, to improve information sharing, monitoring and coordinated operations within their respective jurisdictions.
He also noted that enforcement on the ground comes with challenges, particularly in verifying documents, communication barriers, personnel safety, and overlapping jurisdiction between 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. — June 13, 2026