Why were 517 Rohingya detainees moved from Langkawi?

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517 Rohingya Detainees Relocated From Langkawi to Reduce Costs and Logistical Strain

The Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) relocated 517 Rohingya detainees from the Wawasan Negara camp in Langkawi, Kedah, to immigration depots in Sungai Bakap, Penang, and Bidor, Perak, as a measure to cut costs and streamline logistics, particularly concerning the provision of food and drink. These detainees, aged between 20 and 40, had been housed at the Langkawi facility since April 2020.
Cessation of UNHCR Funding Prompted the Transfer

The primary impetus for this relocation was the cessation of funding from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Previously, the UNHCR had covered the food expenses for the Rohingya detainees. However, this funding ended in August, compelling JIM to seek alternative cost-saving solutions, which led to the decision to transfer the detainees.
Logistical and Financial Considerations Drove the Decision

Beyond the direct cost of food, the relocation aimed to address broader logistical challenges and associated expenses. Managing the supply chain for food and drink for a significant detainee population at the Wawasan Negara camp presented ongoing operational demands. Consolidating these detainees into other established immigration depots was deemed a more efficient approach from a cost and resource management perspective.
Detainees Underwent Health Screening Prior to Relocation

As part of the relocation process, all 517 Rohingya detainees underwent Covid-19 testing on May 28. Following this health screening, the detainees boarded a ferry from Langkawi to Kuala Perlis. The journey commenced at 9:30 am and concluded around 11 am on the day of the transfer, ensuring all necessary protocols were observed before their arrival at the designated depots in Penang and Perak.

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Why were 517 Rohingya detainees moved from Langkawi?

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