Ensure fair treatment of Rohingya returnees

Myanmar is in turmoil, bogged down by the Rakhine crisis, and as members of the Association of South-east Asian Nations (Asean), Singaporeans are concerned.

The Rohingya problem had been simmering for a long time, and it will be a stumbling block in Myanmar’s road to peace and progress if it remains unresolved. It might die down only to rear its head again.

Now that Ms Aung San Suu Kyi has said the country is willing to take back refugees after a verification process, Myanmar could start with a clean slate and register the returnees (Suu Kyi denies going soft on Myanmar military; Sept 21).

This would ensure surveillance of those who might become troublemakers, but also, in all fairness, that those who are not wayward are treated just like other citizens. Only when they are treated well would future problems be averted.

It is heartbreaking to see so many Rohingya fleeing for their lives and exposed to the elements amid a shortage of necessities, not to mention their perilous journey. Such scenes must not recur.

Many in the region hope to see the problem resolved as soon as possible, as that would augur well for Myanmar and Asean. Peace and progress would translate into a boost to its economy and the region as a whole.