Malaysian police have detained more than 100 Rohingya refugees and asylum seekers who were seeking help from the United Nations, according to reports. The refugees said they were forced out of their homes by local residents in the northern state of Penang and had traveled to the capital, Kuala Lumpur, to seek assistance from the UN refugee agency (UNHCR).
Authorities detained the group as they attempted to approach the UNHCR office or shelters. The Rohingya, a mostly Muslim minority from Myanmar, have faced persecution and many have fled to neighboring countries, including Malaysia. In recent weeks, there have been reports of rising hostility toward Rohingya refugees in Malaysia, with some locals accusing them of causing social problems.
The detained individuals were seeking protection and assistance from the UN agency after being displaced from their temporary homes. It remains unclear whether they will be charged or released. The incident highlights the precarious situation of Rohingya refugees in Southeast Asia, where they often face discrimination and lack legal status. Malaysia is not a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention and treats refugees as illegal immigrants. The UNHCR has called for the protection of refugees and urged authorities to find a humane solution. Investigations into the detention are ongoing.