Mankind, at times, is humanity’s biggest downfall. Imperfections and flaws have become written history for many, but those who feel it the most are often those who bear scars for generations to come. The plight of refugees worldwide exemplifies such a lifelong wound.
To be a refugee is to seek refuge elsewhere after being forced to flee one’s home country to escape conflict or persecution. In doing so, refugees are left to their own devices, with limited resources to thrive in foreign lands, and more often than not, they and their future generations become stateless.
To advocate for refugees’ plight, the United Nations dedicates June 20 each year as World Refugee Day. This internationally celebrated date champions the strength and courage of refugees, shedding light on their rights, needs, and dreams. It helps mobilise political will and resources so that refugees can not only survive but also thrive.
By championing their right to seek safety, building support for their economic and social inclusion, and advocating for solutions to their plight, the lives of refugees can improve. In the long run, they can achieve self-development and progress in life.
Sharing his story, second-generation refugee Mohamad Rahman Imam Hussein, based in Kuala Lumpur and born in Penang, Malaysia, grew up amidst difficult circumstances. Ethnically Rohingya, Rahman’s parents are from Arakan, Myanmar — a region marred by genocide.
“My parents were stateless in our homeland from the moment they were born. They witnessed the worst cruelty and brutality inflicted by the Myanmar government. Many of their family members, friends, and relatives fell victim to genocide, rape, forced labour, and slavery. They endured extreme ethnic cleansing,” revealed the 29-year-old.
In a desperate attempt, Rahman’s grandparents forced their children to flee to neighbouring countries in search of sanctuary and protection in the late ’80s. Many of Rahman’s extended family members can be found in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. His own family settled in Malaysia as refugees.
“It was here, in a foreign land far from the horrors of their past, that my parents met and married. All of my siblings and I were born in Malaysia, but we still hold refugee status,” said Rahman sadly.
Growing up, Rahman and his siblings often heard about the genocide that occurred in their homeland. In a heart-wrenching narrative, Rahman’s parents recount nights filled with fear, hiding from soldiers who set fire to their homes, and days spent walking through jungles with empty stomachs and weary spirits.
“When they finally reached the coast, they paid everything they had to board a rickety boat, crammed with desperate people. The sea was merciless; they were tossed around by storms, and many people got sick. When food ran out, the children cried from hunger. When someone died on board, their bodies would just be thrown overboard.”
Escaping their homeland and reaching the shores of another country, Rahman’s parents and other refugees were met with more hostility.
“They were pushed back into the sea, left to drift without any idea if they would survive. It was as if the world had forgotten them. Life continued harshly when my parents reached Malaysia.”
With these memories seared into their minds, they carried the weight of trauma every day. Though born away from the brutality, Rahman, as the child of refugees, faces a different kind of struggle — the constant reminder of being stateless.
According to him, it wasn’t until he was six years old that he realised he was different from other Malaysian children. He saw his friends going to school and realised he couldn’t do the same.
When he asked, his father would simply reply, “We are just different.”
When he was older, Rahman finally felt the brunt of being stateless. It was the lack of basic rights, opportunities, and security that had befallen him. Though spared from the direct horrors of genocide, he instead endured cold treatment, social media harassment, and hate messages that eroded his self-belief and confidence.
“The mental torture of feeling unwelcome and unwanted in the only country I have ever known stunts my sense of worth. As refugees, we have no basic rights and no protection against mistreatment that sometimes comes our way. We live with the constant fear of being seen as unworthy and useless in Malaysian society. The hardest part was knowing that there is no place to truly call home anymore.”
Learning to adapt
But life moves on. Considering himself fortunate to be in Malaysia, Rahman said that despite many opportunities being out of reach, Allah has blessed him in other ways. Despite the challenges, he counted his blessings and felt grateful for where he is today compared to others who continue to suffer.
“I am fortunate that I managed to attend a refugee community school called ‘Dignity for Children Foundation (DCF)’. This school provided me with the opportunity to pursue my education and has become a stepping stone towards my dreams. It has been an avenue for me to break out of the cycle of poverty and challenge the negative perceptions and stereotypes surrounding Rohingyas.”
At the school, he was taught not only the academic aspect but also life values such as resilience, perseverance, and the importance of dreaming big. Surrounded by peers and teachers who shared similar struggles, they became his source of inspiration. Rahman also believed that with knowledge and determination, refugees can change the narrative.
“We can rise above the challenges we face and prove that we are more than our status as refugees. We are capable, deserving, and ready to contribute to society. I am also determined to use my education to uplift my community and to be a voice for those who are still voiceless.
“I hold on to the hope that one day, all Rohingya children will have the same opportunities I had. Together, we can create a future where we are seen for our potential and humanity, not just our refugee status,” he added.
A rainbow over the bridge
Although refugees rarely receive proper opportunities, there are non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and international humanitarian organisations that provide aid. Rahman further commented that there has been an improvement in awareness regarding the human rights of refugees, despite persistent challenges.
Highlighting key improvements, these include better quality healthcare such as vaccinations, maternal health, and treatment for common illnesses. The education landscape has significantly expanded with scholarships, vocational training programmes, formal education opportunities, and the establishment of more community schools. Legal aid, social services, advocacy, and awareness campaigns have also seen increased efforts.
“While these improvements are positive, challenges persist. Rohingya refugees in Malaysia continue to face issues such as limited employment opportunities, discrimination, and uncertainty regarding their legal status and rights.”
When asked what he hoped for his fellow refugees, Rahman expressed a wish for better understanding of the diversity of their experiences and the resilience often demonstrated by refugees.
“We come from diverse backgrounds, professions, and cultures. Our identity is not defined solely by our refugee status but by our humanity, aspirations, and contributions to society. Therefore, it is essential to recognise our unique stories, talents, and strengths.”
Additionally, Rahman hoped that people would understand the importance of empathy and solidarity toward refugees like him.
“Many of us have experienced unimaginable hardships and seek safety and dignity. By extending compassion and support, we can create more inclusive and welcoming communities where refugees can rebuild their lives and contribute positively. Empathy, understanding, and advocacy are crucial in fostering a more compassionate world for refugees and promoting social cohesion.”
His work within the community
Today, Rahman plays a crucial role in the community. Aside from being a model and actor, he educates refugees in Malaysia through content creation, emphasising the importance of respecting Malaysian culture and showing gratitude for the sanctuary and solidarity provided.
“I am also actively involved in advocating for Rohingya human rights. Through various platforms, I educate people about our origin, journey, and the struggles we face as a community. By raising awareness and fostering understanding, I strive to create a more inclusive and empathetic society.”
Highlighting his beliefs and work, he co-founded the United World Academy (UWA) alongside his partner, Aziza Aznizan. Inspired by his own school, DCF, he aims to create paths for other refugees and provide education to marginalised refugee children.
At UWA, Rahman teaches a range of academic subjects, including English, Maths, Computer skills, and Bahasa Melayu. The school’s mission is to guide these young minds, providing them with direction in life and helping them navigate the challenges of being refugees.
“As a refugee myself, I intimately understand the emotions and uncertainties that come with embarking on such a journey. This empathy fuels my passion to ensure that every child at UWA receives not just education but also the support and encouragement they need to thrive,” he shared.
