Source: UN News: Friday, 14 November 2025 00:01 AM
UN agencies have expressed deep sorrow over the recent boat accident between Malaysia and Thailand. This boat was carrying 70 people from Myanmar, including Rohingyas. There are reports of at least 21 people being killed in this accident. UN agencies – imhrc And IOM Has expressed serious concern over the condition of another boat traveling at sea as there is a possibility of loss of life. There are 230 people on board that boat. UN Refugee Agency – UNHCR and International Organization for Migration – IOM have said that Malaysian authorities have safely rescued about 13 people. Thai authorities have also safely rescued two teenage Rohingya girls. There is no information yet on the whereabouts of the remaining passengers. UN agencies have praised Malaysian authorities and local communities for their efforts to help those affected by the accident. The agencies have also said that they are ready to contribute to efforts to assist survivors of this tragic incident. So far this year, more than 5,300 Rohingya people have made the dangerous sea journey from Bangladesh and Myanmar. More than 600 of them are missing or have died. Hope for safety and better conditions Limited aid and opportunities in refugee camps in Bangladesh and a worsening humanitarian situation due to the escalating conflict in Myanmar have forced these people to make dangerous sea journeys in the hope of better conditions. The number of Rohingya people who have made the dangerous sea journeys in recent years Two-thirds are women and children. UN agencies say that responding to such disasters at sea and saving lives is a humanitarian imperative and a duty under the international law of the sea.UNHCR and IOM committed more resources to a stronger regional and international effort to prevent such accidents, to provide safe havens in other countries, and to provide relief and rescue operations. At the same time, the search for a political solution to end the war and violence in Myanmar requires greater regional and international support. UN agencies – UNHCR and IOM are working with governments in the region to assist refugees, migrants and stateless people traveling on critical routes.