PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has opted for a diplomatic approach with Myanmar to address the issue of refugees from the country living in Malaysia, despite international criticism of the government's handling of the crisis, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister said the approach was aimed at finding a solution after decades of criticism and condemnation against Myanmar, spanning 20 to 30 years, had failed to bring about significant changes to its policies.

He said Malaysia's efforts to establish diplomatic ties with Myanmar did not mean it agreed with or endorsed the country's treatment of the Rohingya ethnic minority, but rather served as a channel to secure cooperation in addressing the refugee issue.