Malaysia’s Aid to the Rohingya Community: A Historical Analysis

Abstract

The Rohingya ethnic group has been subjected to systemic oppression and human rights violations in Myanmar, which has forced them to seek refuge in neighbouring countries, including Malaysia. This paper aims to explore the role that Malaysia has played in supporting the Rohingya people during the 2000s, and the types of aid that Malaysia offered. Furthermore, this study investigates the domestic and international factors that shaped Malaysia’s policy towards the Rohingya refugees. By utilising primary sources such as government reports and non-government data, supplemented by secondary literature, the study reveals Malaysia’s multi-faceted approach in supporting the Rohingya. Malaysia has played the role of a host country, facilitated humanitarian missions to Myanmar and Bangladesh, and advocated for the Rohingya people before the international community. The findings show Malaysia’s contributions were influenced by a combination of factors that include humanitarian, Islamic solidarity and strategic interests. However, its aid policy has often been conditioned by security and national interests. Even though Malaysia’s aid efforts are symbolically and regionally significant, they failed to address the root causes of the Rohingya crisis. Consequently, Malaysia has become a temporary and reluctant host state, offering short term relief rather than long term solution. These findings provide insight into Malaysia’s role in the Rohingya refugee crisis while reflecting the overall framework of its foreign policy, which is marked by a delicate balancing act between humanitarian ideals, Islamic solidarity, and national interest. By situating Malaysia’s actions within this broader socio-political framework, this study contributes to a more nuanced and integrated understanding of regional refugee diplomacy.