- Temitope Ajayi || Premier World News
Malaysian authorities have recovered more bodies from the migrant boat that capsized near the resort island of Langkawi, bringing the confirmed death toll to 21, as search-and-rescue operations entered a third day, dozens remain missing.
The Malaysian Coast Guard estimates that about 70 undocumented migrants were on board the vessel, which sank close to the maritime border with Thailand.
“Only 13 survivors, 11 Rohingyas and two Bangladeshis have been rescued so far. At least one of the recovered bodies is that of a child”, the authority said.
Authorities believe the boat was part of a larger group of around 300 Rohingya migrants who left Myanmar’s Rakhine State two weeks ago in an attempt to reach Malaysia.
Another boat carrying approximately 230 migrants remains missing.
Malaysia’s maritime agency said the search operation, supported by sea patrols and aerial surveillance, will run for a minimum of seven days.
The Rohingyas, a persecuted Muslim minority denied citizenship in Myanmar, have fled the region in large numbers since the 2017 military crackdown.
Many who relocated to refugee camps in Bangladesh continue to escape worsening conditions, embarking on dangerous sea journeys toward Malaysia, seen as a potential sanctuary.
Survivors often pay traffickers more than $3,000 for the risky voyage on overcrowded, poorly equipped boats lacking food, water and sanitation.
Authorities note that many vessels never reach their destination; some capsize at sea, while others are intercepted, detained or turned back.
Earlier this year, Malaysia turned away two boats carrying nearly 300 Rohingya refugees after providing them with food and water.
Amnesty International, reacting to the latest tragedy, said the incident highlights “the deadly risks faced by Rohingya Muslims” as they flee persecution in Myanmar and deteriorating conditions in Bangladesh’s refugee camps.
