MSF statement on reported Rohingya boat tragedy in the Bay of Bengal

Surviving journeys like these is extraordinarily difficult. Some patients in Malaysia who have survived this route describe overcrowded boats that are ill-equipped to withstand harsh weather conditions, as well as violence endured along the journey, including sexual violence at the hands of smugglers and traffickers. 

 The trauma experienced by Rohingya people — whether resulting from violent persecution in Rakhine State, the harsh daily conditions in the now landslide and flood-affected camps in Cox’s Bazar, or the dangerous journeys to Malaysia — is reflected in the growing number of patients requiring psychiatric care. Between June and November last year, MSF's clinic in Penang recorded a 20 percent increase in patients seeking this type of mental health support. 

According to UNHCR, 2025 was the deadliest year on record for people undertaking crossings in the Andaman Sea, with approximately 900 people reported dead or missing at sea.

At our clinic in Penang, on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia, we are also witnessing a sharp increase in the number of newly arrived patients, many of whom have made this deadly journey. The number has nearly tripled, rising from 212 people in 2023 to 620 people in 2025. These figures are limited by MSF’s capacity to receive patients and proximity of refugees to MSF’s clinic, and as such, it is likely a grave underrepresentation of all newly arrived Rohingya refugees in need of care. 

While no survivors of this latest incident are reported and whose voices can be shared, we want to highlight the story of Aisya*, a Rohingya mother and mental health patient at MSF's clinic in Penang, who recounted her experience from a journey three years ago. Her testimony remains hauntingly similar to the accounts we continue to hear today and illustrates the extreme risks Rohingya people are forced to take year after year in search of safety: 

Sea crossings represent only one part of this humanitarian and protection crisis. Many Rohingya people also travel overland through dangerous and exploitative smuggling and trafficking routes, where they face risks including physical violence, sexual abuse, exploitation, and other forms of harm. 

At the same time, UNHCR has reported that close to 150,000 Rohingya refugees were newly registered in Bangladesh between December 2024 and 31 March 2026, reflecting the continued conflict and insecurity in Rakhine State that is forcing people to flee their homes. 

MSF extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this latest tragedy while seeking safety and protection. 

 This tragedy underscores, once again, the deadly consequences of the continued persecution, violence, and denial of basic rights faced by Rohingya people. MSF reiterates its call for safe and dignified pathways to protection for people fleeing violence and persecution, alongside urgent action to address the conditions that continue to force Rohingya people to risk their lives at sea.

*name changed