The ongoing labour crisis in Malaysia has underscored the urgent need for policy reforms that would allow Rohingya refugees to contribute meaningfully to the national economy. The Rohingya Centre United Kingdom (RCUK) urges the Malaysian government to consider the economic and humanitarian benefits of granting employment rights to refugees, particularly considering acute workforce shortages.
As of 2025, Malaysia hosts an estimated 192,000 refugees and asylum seekers registered with the UNHCR, of whom approximately 60% are Rohingya. Despite their resilience and willingness to integrate economically, restrictive government policies continue to deprive them of formal employment opportunities, worsening their vulnerabilities and limiting Malaysia’s economic potential.
Labour Shortages and the Case for Policy Reform
The Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (Presma) and the Malaysian Indian Restaurant Owners Association (Primas) have highlighted severe workforce shortages, with over 25,000 vacancies staying unfilled due to a government-imposed ban on hiring new foreign workers. Initially intended to priorities employment for Malaysian citizens, this policy has inadvertently led to operational challenges across key industries, particularly within the food service and hospitality sectors.
Presma President Jawahir Ali Taib Khan has publicly advocated for a policy framework that allows documented Rohingya refugees to enter the legal workforce. Such a measure would not only alleviate pressing labour demands but also provide a structured and dignified means of livelihood for the Rohingya community, fostering social cohesion and economic stability.
Economic Integration as a Viable Solution
The RCUK asserts that the Rohingya people look for neither charity nor handouts, but rather the ability to work lawfully, support their families, and contribute productively to the Malaysian economy. As a rendering stateless people who have endured systemic persecution, the Rohingya have shown resilience, adaptability, and industriousness.
Enabling their participation in the formal labour market would serve Malaysia’s national interests by reinforcing economic growth and workforce stability. Many Rohingya possess ability in sectors such as food service, construction, and textiles—industries currently facing significant shortages. By integrating refugees into the economy, Malaysia could mitigate its reliance on imported foreign labour while upholding human rights obligations.
Mohammed Amin, CEO of RCUK, said: “The Rohingya community in Malaysia is prepared to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s prosperity. We deeply appreciate the Malaysian government and its people for their generosity in providing refuge to our community over the years. Now, we urge the government to build upon this goodwill by establishing a policy framework that recognises our community’s potential and affirms Malaysia’s commitment to human rights and economic pragmatism.”
Ensuring Oversight and Social Stability
While certain segments of the Malaysian public have expressed concerns over refugee integration, it is crucial to acknowledge that Rohingya refugees have been present in Malaysia for decades. Denying them the legal right to work perpetuates exploitative informal employment practices, diminishes potential tax contributions, and limits effective regulatory oversight.
The Malaysian government, under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, has acknowledged the gravity of the labour crisis and is currently reviewing potential solutions. Recognising the right of Rohingya refugees to work legally would align Malaysia with international norms on refugee rights and labour market efficiency, while simultaneously addressing economic imperatives.
For the Rohingya, employment is not merely an economic necessity; it is a fundamental issue of dignity, stability, and self-reliance. RCUK urges Malaysian policymakers to adopt an approach that integrates refugees as economic contributors rather than perceiving them as burdens. Malaysia now has an opportunity to set a regional precedent by proving that economic inclusivity and humanitarian responsibility can coexist.
The Rohingya Centre United Kingdom (RCUK) reiterates its call for the Malaysian government to ease formal employment access for Rohingya refugees. Doing so would not only advance Malaysia’s economic interests but also reinforce its standing as a responsible and forward-thinking nation within the international community.