Foreign female refugees arriving in Indonesia hope that the country can be a more comfortable temporary dwelling place compared to their war-torn homeland. Sadly, the expectation is yet to be fulfilled as gender-based violence is still rampant. Moreover, the country’s weak legal system is ineffective in protecting the victims.
Tag: Refugees
Documenting the Undocumented: The Struggle for a Legal Identity
One out of three people in Sabah is struggling for a legal identity, fundamentally affecting their access to various rights and opportunities. This is the story of three stateless people in Sabah, the challenges they face, and the resilience they have developed.
The Higher Education Labyrinth for Refugee Learners in Peninsular Malaysia
The issue of primary and secondary school access for refugee learners in Peninsular Malaysia has received some public attention. But with a minority of refugees arriving or graduating with secondary school diplomas, an equally important question to ask is: What comes next?
“Nowhere Is Safe”: Myanmar Bombing Shatters “Peace Town”
In Kayin State, recent fighting between the Myanmar military and anti-junta forces has displaced thousands from a Karen village built as a symbol of peace. One year since the coup began, many have fled to the Thai border and struggle to find food and shelter.
Ripple Effect
My mother became a refugee in her own country during the Indonesian War of Independence. The experience reverberated through the rest of her life.
COVID-19’s Mental Health Impact: How Are Refugees Coping?
Deborah Augustin speaks to Matilda Xavier, Clinical Psychologist, and Bo Min Naing, president of the Rohingya Society in Malaysia. They talk about the stigma around mental health in the refugee community, how they have been coping with it during the pandemic, and how some communities are affected more than others.
Malaysia’s Hypocrisy on Palestine
For Malaysian politicians, speaking out in support of Palestinians is a well-worn tradition, especially when Israeli oppression makes headlines. However, by depriving refugees of basic rights at home, these same leaders undermine the Palestinian cause, writes Wael Qarssifi.
Heroes by Necessity: Reframing Refugee Stories
Deborah Augustin speaks to Monique Truong and Leena Al-Mujahed, two women who have experienced forced displacement and continue to face their circumstances and obstacles with courage.
Empowering Refugee Youth Through Education
Htoi San Nhkum, director of the Kachin Refugee Learning Center, and Abeera Abdullah, a Fugee School alumni and the co-founder of Project Stand Up, talk about their educational experience in learning centres here in Malaysia and the impact the pandemic has had on the informal education system for refugee children.
In Malaysia, Undocumented Women Fear Arrest During Pregnancy
High costs and fear of arrest have long stood in the way of maternal healthcare access for undocumented migrants, refugees and asylum seekers. The COVID-19 pandemic has put mothers and babies further at risk.