ACEH, Indonesia: Dozens of Rohingya refugees, who were rescued after their boat capsized off Indonesia’s western coast, have faced displacement from their temporary shelter due to protests from locals in Aceh province.
The Rohingya, fleeing persecution in Myanmar, undertake perilous sea journeys in hopes of reaching safety in Malaysia or Indonesia, but their arrival has stirred tensions in host communities.
Last week, authorities rescued 69 Rohingya refugees clinging to the hull of their overturned vessel, with six others saved by fishermen earlier.
Tragically, at least 11 Rohingya lost their lives at sea, while survivors were provided shelter in an old Red Cross building in West Aceh regency.
However, on Tuesday, local protesters stormed the facility, demanding the eviction of the refugees, prompting authorities to relocate the group of 75 survivors to the backyard of the local government chief’s office.
Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry emphasized that Jakarta had provided temporary shelter to the Rohingya for humanitarian reasons, urging the UN and signatory nations to the UN Refugee Convention to offer permanent shelter.
Notably, Indonesia is not a signatory to the convention, complicating the long-term prospects for Rohingya refugees in the country.
The recent influx of Rohingya refugees in Indonesia’s Aceh province marks the largest since 2015, with over 1,700 arrivals recorded between mid-November and late January. Despite some Aceh locals expressing sympathy towards the plight of Rohingya, protests have erupted, with incidents of forced relocation and clashes between refugees and community members.
While many Acehnese demonstrate solidarity with their fellow Muslims, concerns over perceived anti-social behavior among Rohingya refugees have strained patience in host communities. Instances of protests and confrontations underscore the complex challenges in providing assistance and protection to Rohingya refugees while addressing local concerns and tensions in Aceh province.
