Malaysia’s Rohingya Refugees and Their Education Situation

Have you ever wondered about the fate of Rohingya children who have been deprived of their basic right to education due to displacement and persecution? Are you curious about their conditions and how they are supported after the media spotlight fades? In this article, we will explore the reality of Rohingya refugees in Malaysia, focusing on their right to education, which is often denied due to their challenging circumstances. We will also highlight the vital role played by IESCO and other institutions in supporting these refugees and enabling them to continue their educational journey.

Who Are the Rohingya Refugees?

The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic minority residing in the Rakhine State of Myanmar (formerly Burma). Their crisis has roots in decades of systemic discrimination and persecution by the government and extremist groups, depriving them of basic citizenship rights.

The situation escalated sharply in 2017 when Myanmar’s armed forces launched a brutal military campaign against the Rohingya, described by the United Nations as “ethnic cleansing.” This campaign resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Rohingya, who fled to neighboring countries, particularly Bangladesh and Malaysia, seeking safety and protection.

Today, the Rohingya are one of the largest refugee groups globally, with over a million people. Most live in overcrowded camps in Bangladesh, suffering from poverty, disease, and a lack of basic services.

Where Do Rohingya Refugees Live After Being Displaced from Myanmar?

Rohingya refugees have been forced to flee Myanmar due to systematic persecution and violence. They have found refuge in several countries, primarily:

• Bangladesh: Bangladesh hosts the largest number of Rohingya refugees, with hundreds of thousands living in crowded camps in the Cox’s Bazar area.
• Malaysia: Malaysia is a significant destination for the Rohingya, with over 100,000 registered refugees and tens of thousands of unregistered ones.
• Other Countries: Rohingya refugees are also present in countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and India.

The Rohingya reach these countries through various means, often embarking on dangerous sea journeys or crossing borders by land. They frequently rely on smuggling networks, which exploit and endanger them.

Challenges Facing by Rohingya Refugees in Malaysia

Malaysia attracts many Rohingya refugees seeking a better life, but they face significant challenges that hinder their aspirations. These challenges fall into two main categories:

1. Legal Challenges:

Rohingya refugees in Malaysia struggle with weak legal status for several reasons:

• The government does not recognize them as refugees, denying them the rights and protections guaranteed by international law.
• They live as undocumented immigrants, constantly risking arrest and deportation.
• Obtaining work permits and legal residency proves extremely difficult, exposing them to exploitation and mistreatment by employers.

2. Educational Challenges:

• Rohingya refugees cannot attend Malaysian public schools, depriving them of formal, recognized education.
• They rely on community schools and informal learning centers, which often lack the resources and facilities necessary to provide quality education.
• There is a severe shortage of qualified teachers, negatively impacting the education their children receive.
• Learning the Malay language poses a significant barrier, as most schools and learning centers use it as the primary language of instruction.
• Many Rohingya children suffer from psychological trauma due to violence and persecution in Myanmar, affecting their ability to focus and learn.
• Numerous Rohingya children must work to help their families meet basic needs, limiting their time and energy for education.

Relief Initiatives to Improve Education for Rohingya Refugees in Malaysia

Amidst the lack of formal education, various relief initiatives strive to improve the educational situation for Rohingya refugees in Malaysia. These initiatives include both institutional and community efforts:

• UNHCR Learning Centers: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) provides financial and logistical support to 128 education centers across Malaysia, aiming to offer basic education to Rohingya children.
• Community Schools: Informal schools established by the Rohingya themselves, these schools rely on volunteers from the Rohingya and Malaysian communities and offer curricula in Rohingya and English. Notable examples include:
  • Sekolah Komuniti Rohingya: Established ten years ago in Kuala Lumpur, this school provides primary and some preschool education for Rohingya children aged 6 to 14.
  • United Arakan Institute Malaysia: Located in Selangor, this institute offers comprehensive education to Rohingya orphans or children who have lost one parent. In addition to education, the institute provides healthcare, meals, and vocational training.
• Other Educational Programs: Various Education NGOs in Malaysia offer informal education programs, such as literacy classes, life skills training, and vocational training.

Role of the International Islamic University (IIUM) in Supporting Rohingya Students

The International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) leads efforts to support Rohingya education by launching pioneering initiatives to empower them academically. These initiatives include:

• A special program to admit Rohingya students, offering them opportunities to pursue higher education in various fields.
• IIUM provides full scholarships to Rohingya students, covering tuition fees, health insurance, accommodation, books, and study materials.
• The university offers academic support, including tutoring, workshops, and training courses.
• IIUM helps Rohingya students adapt to university life and overcome the challenges they face.
• The university organizes training courses for Rohingya teachers to enhance their skills and prepare them to educate their children effectively.

How IESCO Contributes to Rohingya Relief in Malaysia

IESCO focuses on providing scholarships for international students, including the Rohingya, to study in Malaysia. These scholarships directly support the Rohingya community by empowering students and enhancing their educational and professional capacities.

The IESCO scholarship is a valuable opportunity for Rohingya students to study at prestigious Malaysian universities. Here are the main features of the scholarship:

• Tuition Coverage: The scholarship covers tuition fees for one academic year, reducing the financial burden on students.
• Diverse Programs: It includes a wide range of disciplines and study programs in various fields.
• Additional Support: The scholarship may offer additional financial support to cover living expenses and health insurance.
• Cultural Interaction: It allows students to interact with different cultures and gain valuable experiences that contribute to their personal and professional development.

Supporting Rohingya education in Malaysia remains challenging, but hope shines through thanks to the efforts of humanitarian organizations like IESCO. We strive to ensure every refugee child receives their right to education and provide a safe, supportive learning environment that enables them to build a better future for themselves and their communities.