Malaysia is home to over 185,000 registered refugees and asylum seekers, as reported by the UNHCR. However, without formal refugee status in our country, their access to education, healthcare, and work opportunities is severely restricted. Despite challenges, a network of dedicated organisations work tirelessly to support and empower refugee communities.
1. Asylum Access Malaysia (AAM)
Asylum Access Malaysia is a key player in advocating for refugee rights. Their mission is to provide legal aid and empower refugees to navigate their asylum claims. Through legal consultations, workshops, and strategic partnerships, AAM helps refugees understand their rights and gain access to fair processes. They also actively campaign for policy reforms to create a more inclusive legal framework for refugees in Malaysia.
How you can support: Through volunteering, fundraising, or even considering a career change. Click here for more information.
2. Fugee School
Fugee School is dedicated to educating refugee children, ensuring they have the skills and knowledge to thrive. Established in 2009, the school offers a holistic curriculum that covers academics, arts, and extracurricular activities. Beyond traditional education, Fugee School also provides mentorship and leadership programs, helping students build confidence and pave the way for a brighter future. Their work underscores the transformative power of education in breaking cycles of poverty and displacement.
How you can support: Volunteering, donating, and sharing their mission. Click here for more information or email [email protected].
3. Refuge For The Refugees (RFTR)
Refuge For The Refugees is a non-profit organisation focused on advocacy, education, and community development. RFTR works closely with refugee communities, operating schools and training centres to equip refugees with essential skills. The organisation also raises public awareness about refugee issues through campaigns and partnerships. Their efforts extend to addressing food security and providing emergency aid during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
How you can support: Sign up as a volunteer here.
4. Dignity for Children Foundation
Dignity for Children Foundation is a well-known organisation that strongly advocates for underprivileged and refugee children through education. With over 20 years of experience, Dignity provides holistic learning environments through programs like early childhood education and primary and secondary schooling. There’s also vocational training. Their projects often include arts, entrepreneurship, and life skills, preparing children for future independence.
How you can support: Donate, help with fundraising or volunteer. You can also sponsor a child.
5. PichaEats
PichaEats combines social enterprise with sustainable support for refugee families. The platform partners with refugee chefs to deliver customers authentic and delicious home-cooked meals. By creating a source of income for refugees, PichaEats not only empowers families financially but also promotes cultural exchange and understanding. Their innovative approach demonstrates how entrepreneurship can create impactful, lasting change.
How you can support: Order their food for family gatherings, celebrations, and all sorts of special occasions.
6. Doctors on Ground (DnG)
Doctors on Ground is a volunteer-driven initiative providing essential healthcare services to underserved communities, including refugees. DnG organises mobile clinics, health screenings, and medical aid distribution, addressing critical healthcare needs for refugees who often lack access to formal medical services. Their compassionate work ensures refugee families receive the care and support they deserve.
How you can support: Fundraise for their communities, donate, or get hands-on by volunteering. Find out more here.
These organisations aren’t just providing services – they’re building bridges, challenging systems, and proving that community care is revolutionary. Every small action matters.
Your move: Pick an org, get involved, spread the word. Together, we can turn compassion into real-world change.
