On World Refugee Day, June 20, UNICEF Malaysia shed light on a critical issue.

A fundamental right is being denied to thousands of children in Malaysia. UNICEF, a leading humanitarian organization, is sounding the alarm on the lack of education access for refugee and stateless children in the country on The World Refugee Day 2024 . This lack of opportunity not only hinders their potential but also exposes them to vulnerability. Our report dives deeper into this critical issue and the urgent call to action from UNICEF.

No Access To Formal Education

There are an estimated 41,000 school-aged refugee children registered with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Malaysia. Shockingly, none of them currently have access to formal education in public schools.

Limited Alternatives

Image via UNHCR

While hope exists in the form of alternative learning centres, the reality is far from ideal. These centres, catering to only 34% of refugee and stateless children, often face significant limitations. Resource constraints and a lack of government recognition can hinder their ability to provide a comprehensive and high-quality education. This leaves many children with inadequate access to crucial learning opportunities, further jeopardising their future prospects.

A Stolen Future

Education is a basic right, yet countless refugee and stateless children are missing out. This exclusion has a ripple effect:

• Limited Opportunities: Without recognised education credentials, these children struggle to find jobs, build social networks, or access mentors.
• Unfulfilled Potential: Denied a proper education, these children are robbed of the chance to reach their full potential and contribute to society.
• Vulnerability: Lack of legal status puts these children at risk of arrest and detention, as highlighted by UNICEF data showing over 1,400 children currently held in immigration centers.

A Call to Action

Image via UNICEF Malaysia

UNICEF Malaysia urges the Malaysian government to:

• Uphold Child Rights: Respect the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which guarantees non-discrimination in access to education, survival, and development.
• Inclusive Education Systems: Invest in strengthening national education systems to ensure all children, regardless of background, have equal access to education, healthcare, and social protection.

UNICEF emphasises that all children deserve the chance to learn in a safe and secure environment. By taking action, Malaysia can ensure a brighter future for refugee and stateless children within its borders.