The situation raises urgent humanitarian concerns as local residents provide limited assistance from a distance, amidst increasing tensions surrounding refugee policies in Aceh Province.
Stranded Rohingya Refugees Face Hostility in Indonesia
Stranded Rohingya Refugees Face Hostility in Indonesia
A group of around 140 Rohingya refugees has been left stranded at sea for over a week, unable to land in Indonesia as local communities refuse to accept them.
A boat carrying approximately 140 Rohingya refugees has been adrift off the coast of Indonesia for over a week, barred from reaching shore by local communities in Aceh Province. Despite receiving some essential supplies from nearby residents collaborating with the United Nations' refugee agency, the refugees are unable to disembark due to growing discontent among local populations.
Muhammad Jabal, chairman of the fisheries association in the South Aceh region, expressed that while the community is actively working to provide food and water to the stranded boat, they are unwilling to welcome the refugees on land. Residents are concerned about the potential for unrest, a sentiment echoed by Jabal, who reported incidents of littering, theft, and other disturbances in nearby areas that previously accepted Rohingya refugees.
This recent situation highlights a troubling trend in Indonesia, which has traditionally been a refuge for thousands of Rohingya fleeing persecution. However, misinformation circulating on social media has fueled fear and resistance among local communities, leading to a growing rejection of refugees.
The UN refugee agency's spokesperson, Tiy Chung, indicated that negotiations are ongoing with local authorities to secure a safe landing for the refugees. The Rohingya, who are predominantly Muslim, are recognized as one of the most persecuted ethnic groups in the world. Following the 2017 genocide in Myanmar, around a million have been displaced, seeking asylum and a better life in neighboring countries.
