Refugees in Malaysia

Refugee is a one who is outside his/her country and unable to return for fear of persecution because of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion. As of Sept 30, 2010, there are 90,229 refugee and mostly from Myanmar. The Malaysian Government does not legally recognise refugees, as such they are considered as undocumented migrants. Authorities such as the Immigration Department, Police and RELA often conduct raids to arrest undocumented migrant.

No matter how difficult life is here, it is still better than returning to their country to face the risk of persecution and often, death. Only someone in fear would tolerate such conditions.

A children of refugee from Sri Lankan take a meal  during launch campaign “142 are state parties. It is time for Malaysia” in Kuala Lumpur May 8, 2011.

A children of refugee from Myanmar take a part during launch campaign “142 are state parties. It is time for Malaysia” in Kuala Lumpur May 8, 2011.

A children of  Shan refugee dancing during launch campaign “142 are state parties. It is time for Malaysia” in Kuala Lumpur May 8, 2011.

A children of refugee from Chin Falam take a part during launch campaign “142 are state parties. It is time for Malaysia” in Kuala Lumpur May 8, 2011.

A children of refugee from Sri Lankan prepared for performance during launch campaign “142 are state parties. It is time for Malaysia” in Kuala Lumpur May 8, 2011.

Photo by Adi Safri