CNI News
26 May 2024
The number of the people who have registered at the UNHCR as refugees and those who have sought asylum was almost 190,000 and among them, more than 160,000 were the people from Myanmar, the UNHCR in Malaysia stated. The figure was until April, 2024.
Among over 160,000 Myanmar people, over 110,00 were Rohingya; about 26,000, Chin and 30,000, other nationalities from conflict-hit areas, according to the statement.
It was still difficult for Myanmar nationalities up to now like in the past, U Nyi Nyi Lwin, director general of the Center for Arakan Refugees (CAR) told CNI News.
" Most Rohingya got refugee status. As the rest ethnic people are just a minority, it's still difficult for them to win the opportunity from the UNHCR like in the past. The UN's recognition of Myanmar citizens who fled and have sought asylum is still low. Undocumented Myanmar people were arrested by the hundred in Malaysia not very long ago." he said.
65 percent of the people who have sought asylum are men and 35 percent, women; the number of people under 18 was over 50,000, according to the UNHCR. Moreover, if Myanmar people who have held the UN refugee cards were arrested, the UNHCR's reply whether it was correct or not would be delayed, according to the people who are helping in the affairs of refugees.
Moreover, while it is difficult to get a job at present, Myanmar people are being cheated by liar brokers, U Barbu Gyi, a person who is helping Myanmar citizens in Malaysia, told CNI News.
" There are many foreigners who were arrested and sent back even though they have held permits at present. Job vacancies are also scarce. In the situation like this Myanmar brokers cheat their compatriots and employ for one month and say there is no job anymore and dismiss. Many people who were cheated were not paid." he said.
There has been an increase in number of arrests again in Malaysia since a few days ago and many Myanmar citizens have been arrested, according to philanthropic associations in Malaysia.
In arresting like that, foreign migrant workers were arrested and taken away and documented workers were released reportedly.
