Parliamentary Symposium Highlights Education and Legal Work Access for Refugees — Johari

Photo: Bernama

Arakan Now | 8 Feb 2026

The Parliamentary Symposium on Access to Education and Legal Work for Refugees serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness among Members of Parliament (MPs) and the public about the urgent needs of refugees in Malaysia, particularly children and youth, said Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, according to Bernama.

He said many young refugees currently living in the country have no access to education, a situation that could pose long-term social challenges if left unaddressed.

“If they are not educated and remain here without skills or opportunities, this could potentially contribute to social problems. These are issues that must be taken seriously,” he told reporters after attending the symposium at the Parliament building on Sunday.

Johari also urged MPs to raise the matter in their respective select committees and produce comprehensive reports, adding that Parliament would provide space for debate to ensure broader understanding.

“I will give you space so that you can debate these issues in Parliament. The public must understand what is happening,” he said.

In his speech, Johari noted that Malaysia hosts more than 200,000 refugees, most of whom are adults of working age but are not legally permitted to work, while nearly 30 per cent of the refugee population consists of children, many of whom are unable to access formal education.

“Today’s symposium invites us to reflect on how allowing refugees to work legally and ensuring that refugee children have access to education can significantly contribute to our nation’s growth. We are here to explore pathways and mechanisms that can help make this vision a reality,” he said.

Meanwhile, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Representative in Malaysia Louise Aubin welcomed Johari’s leadership in convening the symposium, noting that parliamentarians play a key role in disseminating accurate information to communities through their direct engagement with the public.

“Treating refugees well or badly does not change the reality that they are here. Addressing their needs through legal means is the most appropriate way forward in managing the asylum situation in Malaysia,” she said.

Aubin also highlighted Malaysia’s long-standing tradition of hosting refugees, particularly from the region.

“When conflicts are resolved and political solutions are found, refugees have one desire: to return home,” she said. “Until then, they can still count on Malaysia to help them rebuild a normal life until a solution is reached.”

She added that providing refugees with access to education, healthcare and lawful employment would not only stabilise their situation but also benefit Malaysia as a whole.