The Missing Chin Refugees Come Home

Kuala Lumpur: On 19 September; Jemin Aung, Sang Zel Thang and Biak Sang, who all are genuine recognised refugees with the office of UNHCR, had been gone reportedly missing near Plaza Metro Kajang where they were supposed to meet there with their friend who was on the way to pick them up there, said Mr. Veng Kam, an elder from the same village in Chin state, Myanmar.

It was tough times for families facing the very crucial condition of three men of Chin refugee missing, appearing that there seemed no traceable trend of search. 

Mr. Duh Hmung, who was working together with them two days ago before they’re lost, was suggesting that they could have been arrested and directly sent to the detention camp for a friend hurried to pick them up saw a lot of police patrolling around that area by the time he got there. Another specualtion is, they would be kept somewhere as ransom by the Indian boss for whom they have been working. 

Asked if reason of why they ran away from work, they couldn't help staying any longer without the pay they deserved and in addition to that, they eventually found out there's nothing more to get but to work as if a hard-labor only. Obviously, they were just working as slaves. When complaining to the boss, who claimed he paid Rm-500 agent fees for each of them to the Burmese guy, it appeared he didn't want to do anything they requested, continued in an interview.

So, the employer got to know about the prepared plan of runaway and locked them up in a room. They only could leave the room when it was time to work. However, they somehow they were able to manage to send messages to friends for help and to pick them up at Plaza Metro,Kajang. But friend didn't find them when getting there to pick them up at the said place.

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A week later, they reportedly came to the Chin refugee body in order to seek further help and advices to find what's happening about after a week of their exhausting search. At once, it was learnt that they were helped contacting Akka who took a lead to reach to Indian boss and told him the speculations over the whereabouts of the missing persons. After all, it seemed there's no positive outcome according to talks with the Akka, the so-called Burmese agent on the phone, citing the speculation was being clouded as their whereabouts remain untraceable. 

On the verge of tireless endeavor for farther search, there sprang up with very good news that the missing persons finally could make a way out from the two-week long lock-up of the Indian employer and got home on 09 October. It was reported that they ran away as soon as they could pick up their phones and UNHCR's cards which were kept in the hands of Indian man since they were caught back in front of Plaza Metro- where they were supposed to meet with their dated friend.  

It was precisely learnt that the Indian man had them worked and carried things on truck in which they suddenly happened to find their phones and UNHCR's cards and hurried running away fast just while the Indian man was doing some small stuffs inside the house. According to what the victims transpired during the interview, they do suspect of Burmese guy, Akka who made them moved to Indian man, was selling them to him as ransom.

by Simon

Rise of Chin Refugee Caned

Kuala Lumpur: 19 Oct, Van Lian Hmung, a recognized Chin refugee holder of UNHCR's card 791-09C02651 was arrested at the dawn operation of Police and Rela in Cheras Taman Lensen at 2:00 am on 11 March, 2010. The operation was known targeting at many of Chin refugees dwelling at the area.

In an interview with VOCR team, he mentioned that he was sent to Lengkeng Camp and got locked-up there for 14 days, although he is holder of UNHCR's card. Then he was sent again to Sebang court to hear the final determination of the judge which is especially designed to sentence for refugees.

As soon as the sentence was finally made, he was referred back to Kajang detention center definitely where he got caned three times. His detention number was quoted as 35587 which was given for each detainee. Intensively questioned if the base accusation of being sentenced to be whipped for three times, he appears that he doesn't understand the reason of the base at all.

Arresting on the street in public and extortion at the corner of roadside or buildings are typically the two major problems Chin refugee possesses in every single day (which) stir up causing the often-occurrence of anxiety and fear in the way of the less fortunate stranding in Malaysia.

by Simon

Caning Exercises in Detention Center

Kuala Lumpur: 18 October, it was reported that Mang Suan Khai, a recognized refugee (ref: 354-09C7809) from Chin State was arrested on the way to Church on Sunday 08, August, 2009 at the Bus Station of Kuala Lumpur, called Parsasini.

He appeared to happen to meet the Sunday operation of police and Rela at that place while he was going to his usual worship center. Late in that evening, he was directly sent to Saminyih detention center where he faced unreasonable sentence in that court.
 

Afterward, he was reportedly sent back to Kajang detention camp on 14 Oct, 2009 and was caned once there on the unknowable accusation of the police, quoted as saying to VOCR team, adding that he was awfully amazed at the charge he was given.

Later, he was moved again to Lang Keng Camp. Fortunately, he was met by OPI team of UNHCR and had an interview for couple of minutes that assured that he along with his inmates was under the consideration of UNHCR. On that day, he was reportedly registered and got the serial number of UNHCR as stated above.

In an interview, he continued to mention that there were more than five inmates whose native are Hakha Chins who appeared to have faced the same caning in Kajang detention camp. Sadly, they got whipped much more than I was.
 

However, what he reiterated during the interview is that he is not so much sure if they have been already released or not from the said camp because of being moved to Lang Keng Camp—it was not so long from his trial of caning.

Asked if he needs to have post-counseling on his courses of trial experienced in detention center, he is appeared to try his best to manage to cope with the fear of arrest, frustration and ill-treatment.

So far, the caning exercised over recognised refugees in detention camps had been effectively stopped since 2008 according to the confirmed report. But this report is a newly exertion that many of Chin refugees have been experiencing.

by Simon

Police Stop Refugees to Obtain Money

Kuala Lumpur: 21 Sept, 2010: Two Chin refugee men were stopped by the police at Mid Velley KTM station while returning home from funeral service at late evening on 21^st of September, 2010. The incident was occurred between 7-8 pm and the two lads were handcuffed and beaten up as they don't have legal documents to show the police.

Two arrested, namely Zaw King and Phun Duh were taken off to the roadside and searched their body. Beside, both were investigated for no reasons and several questions being asked while searching their body at a darken place. The police found out only RM-25 on their hands and accused them of being hiding the rest of their money in their private parts thought they have no more exceeding.  

According to anonymous lady, a sister of one of the victim said during the phone call that her younger brother Zaw King's mobile phone which is worth up to RM- 600 was confiscated beside his money, adding that her brother was punched on his stomach as he claimed the police to return his mobile phone.  

"The police intentionally approached us and asking to show our passport. They immediately handcuffed as we have nothing but the UNHCR card and taken us off to the roadside and forcing us to take out all our belongings. I was slapped twice as they don't find the money inside my pocket, saying that you are under arrest and would be sent off to jail unless you have the money  for ransom" another arrested Mr. Phun said.  

After almost an hour stopping at the roadside, the two Chin lads were eventually released but the police didn't return all their belongings.

The surveillance showed that extortion by police and robbers is common complained made by the refugees every day since 2008 onward. Many of recognized refugees have lost their jobs and missed out their appointment for further interview in the UNHCR office due to mobile phones confiscation by the police and robbers. This provocative and unduly extortion and robberies have affected and interrupted to speed up numbers of refugee status especially when they missed out interview with the UNHCR office for resettlement program. 

by Salai C C

A Chin Refugee Woman Raped in Klang

Kuala Lumpur: 5th October, 2010: It was reportedly revealed that a Chin woman, who is a recognized refugee of UNHCR (Ref:791-10C3214) in Malaysia was raped by a security guard whose nationality is said ‘Indian-Malaysian’. The P.O.C with her husband are stranding in Shah Alam in Klang, Kuala Lumpur.  

It was later learnt that the incident took place in her apartment while she was on the way back home from her working place. It was said that the security guard followed her room and asked of them IC (Identity Card) pretending as if a police. Minutes later, he took her to the security toilet and raped her there after leaving her husband beaten and locked up in the room as a result. “I know I am of three month pregnancy now” said in an interview on the phone with her who honestly request for anonymity. 

The Chin community regards it as a sham and harsh act on woman. Stood in awkward-position, they don’t have any ideas to deal with this very bitter affair by their own limitations. Apart from lodging a report to the police station, the community is beyond an effort for this heart-torn problem. Instead of claiming to the Chin community body, they themselves straight away made a report to UNHCR in details since knowing nothing to do more, which is the right choice.

Truth, the Chin community is deeply concerned of her post trauma-related consequences that might possible disturb carrying the baby in womb. The great hope that the community can cling on is that UNHCR would fully support in taking care of her in terms of the basic needs to recover from her tough depression and feeling anxiety on this course. 

The incident apparently indicates that every single female of refugee can be a victim of any gangster anytime preying upon the poor refugee miserably stranding in Malaysia. 

Consequently, rapes and killings on Chin refugee have been encountered not this the first time. Ever once, it’s been a very popular hot-talked issue internationally in matters of six year old girl, who was to resettle the next day to America along with her family, was chopped apart in 2006. Two days later, the body chopped apart was found in the near-by rubbish bin by the rubbish-collecting Chinese fellow.

Detailed information of hot-issue on the repeated occurrences over rape, car-accident, extortion, kidnapping and other cases is being filed as always in the information department. 

by Simon

Scenario of Threatening Environment Clouding

Kuala Lumpur: 30th Sept, 2010: On 30 September, an Indian-Malaysian gang with knife robbing some goods of Chin family was arrested red-handed by a bunch of Hriphi Fellowship youths at 10:00 pm last night. They tied his hands up back side with robes and trying to refer to the near-by police station.

The incident took place in Jalan Ipoh, Kualam Ari, Kuala Lumpur where more than 250 people from dozens of Chin refugee families are stranding.

Meanwhile, a suspected friend, who is known as Chinese, of the gang caught called many of his gangstering friends championing in the area and running down to the scene and trying to pick him up. But it was reported that a bunch of Chin youths tried to stop them.

"Soon after, other groups of Indian and Chinese, who are believed to be group of gangster, were appeared to get there (the scene) very fast by van and motor bike and started beating my youths. I called my people to be back off and run into the fellowship center. Having being locked the door, they couldn't do us hurt any more but destroyed all our window glasses. Then they all disappeared like the wind immediately", said Mr. Tha Peng, who is a recognised refugee- ref: 791-09C00940, in face to face interview.

Head-cum-leader of the fellowship did contact the police station at the scene. At the same time, we also contacted other Chin communities, such as CRC, CDAC (Chin Disciplinary Action Committee) and CCF (Chin Christian Fellowship).

"Afterwards, police from C.I.D arrived and brought me and Van Uk Nawl , a recognised refugee- ref: 791-09C00865, too, who is from the same village are mostly badly injured and x-rayed twice at Kuala Lumpur General Hospital", he continued.

In addiction, again this afternoon, a Chinese man who is well-known as drug-addict in the area going around our vicinity with knife and so he informed our fellowship school not to go out but stay only at school at once because he is on the way to go to inform CRC in person and have a concerted discussion on this threatening problem.

Many, including children are losing their money, hand-phones and UNHCR's cards because of running away to escape from the gangster's violent hands.

He reiterated that this is not the first time happened but been a result of several incidents. Many are known personally attacked by the motor bike riding gangs with knife and many have been badly hit by wooden sticks while they were on the way to be back home from each of their working places. Most of the people dwelling in that area, according to Mr. Tha Peng, are mostly known from Hriphi, Thantlang Township, Chin State.

Asked if anything bad they committed in the area, he is appeared to be assured that there's nothing they committed. The reason is, they are truly and strongly cooperated and harmonized very well-- besides, they always conduct worship service every night that ensures they are united and shared with to greater some extent.

Thus, the Chin people stranding in Jalan Ipoh are coming to clearly sense that they are in very threatening condition. It was learnt that CRC made an immediate report on the incident to OPI (Outreach Protection Individual) and CDU (Community Development Unit) which both of them are under the umbrella of UNHCR in Malaysia.

by Simon

A Report on Chin Refugees Missing

Kuala Lumpur, 19 Sept, 2010: There is a hot-issue facing the critical condition that three men of Chin refugee are reportedly missing and appearing that there is no traceable trend of search until now. On 19 September, Jemin Aung, Sang Zel Thang and Biak Sang (791-10C01941), who all are genuine recognised refugees with the office of UNHCR, are reportedly missing near Plaza Metro Kajang at which they had a date for meeting and so their friend are on the way to pick them up there, said Mr. Veng Kam who is one of an elder from the same village in Chin state, Myanmar.

Mr. Duh Hmung, who stopped working together with them so far just two days ago before they’re lost, is suggesting that they could be arrested by the police and directly send them to the Camp or another option is, they would be kept somewhere as ransom by the escorts of the last Indian boss to whom they work. Another anticipation they have is that a friend hurried to pick them up saw a lot of police patrolling around that area by the time he got there.

Asked if reason of why they ran away from work, it was so obvious that they finally came to realize that there’s nothing to get, even for buying phone card when complaining to the boss, who firmly grasped excuses of giving Rm-500 agent fees for each of them to the Burmese guys, regardless of their salary in an interview.

Plainly, Mr. Duh Hmung, who could ran away aired the boss about his skiving off from the job but three of his friends were still remained stayed there when getting out of that job, adding that we were just locked-up in the room and only called for work when the time was up to work but it was said that food was provided for meal time, though. At the end of hope, they, three of the rest secretly wanted to flee away from the working site and so they did send some sms text to their close friend went for pick-up.

A week later, they reportedly came to approach CRC to seek further help that has been beyond their exhausting search. In front of them, Health and Protection coordinator, Tin Mg Shwe made a call to Akka who took a lead to reach to Indian boss with regard to the missing persons whom he recruited. After all, there is no much glimpsing hope to look for them according to talks with the Burmese agent on the phone, citing the speculation is clouding as their whereabouts remain untraceable.

A concerted effort with a harmonious spirit is shared with them and trying best to find the lost hopefully as we are going on. At best, they are our members and people, said coordinator stated above.

by Simon

Repeated Occurrence over Extortions

Kuala Lumpur, 5 Sept, 2010: Dozens of Chin refugees have been coming upon, since many years ago, daily extortion and robbing of police and gangsters here in Malaysia according to the reports received in the community office.  It could be said that lots of people in different places nearly always get extorted and robbed. Moreover, another merciless attack of gangsters is regarded as a threatening issue for the refugees dwelling, though we are just here for temporary period. Police is viewed as extorter and in the same time, gangsters as robber in the minds of thousands of refugees. 

On September 5, Mr. Far Kung, a recognized refugee in Malaysia who is working in Coffee Product factory in Ipoh about 400 km away from Kuala Lumpur, was reportedly experiencing extortion and all the money totaled Rm-1900 by a gang when he banked small amount of money in Ipoh, said the information unit. 

In an interview on the phone with him for further details dig-up, he said "I always rushed to the bank location before I managed to do anything whenever I got paid at the end of month in order to save even some money in the card very fast, adding that I have to save money because I'm fully responsible to support my big family with six children left in Chin state".

The victim continued that the happening was so fast that there's no time to run away at a time he was asked of to just show up his bank card by a strange person that he never knew before. Although he told him he couldn't show him bank card by any means, he was threatened and extorted along with the rest of his money from the pocket and left. 

It’s appeared that there's no way to track him down since he doesn't have any inkling knowledge of the person's whereabouts. Asked of help from his boss after getting home, he helped him and contacted the bank at once. But it's been late already for all money was withdrawn, instead. 

Not surprisingly, in the growing sense of refugee’s plight, this kind of strange attack is not a new-found affair but rather be the used-to happenings in the way of refugees' lives, cited by one of the community volunteer. The victim reiterated that group of gangsters championing in the areas of Ipoh extorted some of his friends' belongings that include some money kept for offerings and tithes for Church and UNHCR's cards while they were on the way to attend worship service at Church on Sunday, which is just at a crowded flat shared by the same refugees who are their friends, too. 

Simply, when met with gangsters and police, it seems there's no way to escape from their hunt-hands but to just wait for snail-biting miracles happening, their will of letting go that is all about. 

Accordingly, every month a series of reports on police extortion and gangsters robbing is usually voiced to the office, said information department. The CRC body is deeply concerned and aggrieved over repeated occurrences of what appear to be a threat and danger against refugees in Malaysia.

by Simon

Long Hidden Chin Refugee Detainees Released

Kuala Lumpur: Shing Aung Ling (24) of 9 months in detention center, from Sawng Taung village, Mindat Township Chin State was arrested on 24/11/2009 at Citara a small town while on the way to enter into Malaysia border along with 10 compatriots as he was intentionally forced to go in the front line to check the highway if the border guards were patrolling or not. The rest of his friends were safe because they could run away after knowing his friend was being arrested.

Kee Aung Thang (26) from Mui Ton village from Mindate township Chin state was arrested on 04/01/2010 by UPP wearing plain cloths and put in detention center for 7 months. Similarly, he was on the way to enter into Malaysia along with other six villagers in the beginning of this year.

During the intensive interview with the P.O.C, they are appeared to know that they arrived Ipoh in a group on 01/01/10. It is also learnt that the agent leaved them empty-handed in a small room. Few hours later, the agent came back shortly, he called a cab and told Kee Aung Thang and his two friends to get on- saying that all of you will be sold on fishing boat as your agent in Kuala Lumpur has not paid me the promised agent fee yet. The three men were shifted to another town and slept there for one night. On the next day at 11 am, the agent called them to unknown place where the human traffickers were waiting for them in exchange.

Soon after, the men were carried away by motor-bike toward a deep forest. The nearer they approached the Thai border, Mr. Kee risked his life that he jumped off the motorbike and fled away. He was said he hid in the unfamiliar cane field for two days. He then later decided in the end of hope to see a nearest town or village. But he was rather arrested by UPP on his way.

Agonized and frustrated, Mr. Kee told VOCR that he has not heard any news about his two friends, prompting that they might have been sold onto fishing boat in the border as couple of victims has not appeared until recently.

Both ex-detainees were locked up in Citara police station just the time before transferring them to Balantik camp. It was said the sentencing order was made by the judge then the two arrestees were taken to Pakoksena jail for couple of months to serve their unknowable imprisonment terms. Then they were again shifted to Balantik Camp.

It was later learnt that 30 Chin refugees were already there in Balantik camp by the time the two men were arrived there. The UNHCR protection team was appeared to visit the camp on 19/03/2010 and started interviewing with refugee detainees. Included though their names in the first list, Sing and Kee were later told that their names were missing for the next round of interview on 23/03/2010 which caused them so frustrated and bitter in addition to being daily suffered the tough treatment and the dehydrated food provided in the detention centers.

Actually, in genuine express, the two detainees were recognized as refugee status by UNHCR on 03.06.2010 in the Camp interview and were released on 26.08.2010. Until present, it is the UNHCR system to see the detainee first in order in the detention center or camp and interviewing the P.O.C in order to define the eligibility of refugee status. After all, they could immediately take action on those concerned as is needed for his/her protection respectively.

According to the recent released detainees, the source saying that seven of Chin refugees including a five year old girl with his mother are still remained in that stated Camp. The Chin community body have strongly a great hope on those remained in the Camp and they will be released as soon as possible.

By Simon

Suaram alarmed as Rela heads back to detention camps

By G Vinod

PETALING JAYA: Suaram is alarmed that the government has decided to allow Rela volunteers back into immigration detention centres.

In a statement released today, the human rights group noted that Rela personnel were withdrawn from the detention camps last year following allegations that they had abused detainees. Suaram was responding to reports that the government was planning to revamp the management of the detention centres and upgrade their facilities. 

“We laud the government's move to revamp the facilities as many human rights organisations have raised concerns regarding the deplorable conditions and poor management of the detention centres.  

“But we are concerned that the government is planning to bring back Rela officers into the detention camps,” said Suaram coordinator Temme Lee. “We have repeatedly argued that Rela personnel should not be allowed to handle detention centres as they are not well-trained to handle migrants,” he said. He also called on the government to stop treating illegal immigrants as if they were common criminals. Confining them to detention centres should be the last resort, he said. 

“Their only guilt is flouting immigration laws,” Lee said. “If there is a need to detain them, perhaps the government can consider other alternatives like what Australia is doing — keeping the migrants in community detention premises.” 

  Welfare aspects ignored  

Lee also said the proposed revamp did not take into account the welfare of detainees. “It seems the government is only looking into the security aspects.” “Suaram feels that adequate attention must also be given towards fulfilling the basic rights of the detainees, such as providing them clothing, clean water, bedding, proper healthcare and other basic needs.” Suaram also urged the government to ensure that the detention centres comply with international human rights standards. 

  “The government can look into the United Nations' Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners and the UN Body of Principles for the Protection of All Persons under Any Form of Detention or Imprisonment as a guide,” Lee said. “We also urge the government to hold regular dialogues with civil society movements and other stakeholders on how to improve the management of immigration detention centres in the country.”

http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/fmt-english/news/general/9696-suaram-alarmed-as-rela-heads-back-to-detention-camps

Biometric system to track foreign workers

By FLORENCE A. SAMY 

newsdesk@thestar.com.my 

 

KUALA LUMPUR: A biometric system to monitor foreign workers in the country is expected to be in place by October, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammu-ddin Hussein.

He said once the system had been implemented, foreign workers would be tracked via a database and have their thumbprints recorded to prevent them from abusing their visas and ensure that they were in the country legally.

“One of our concerns is that foreign workers who arrive here with a legal working permit end up overstaying after it expires. We hope to have the system in place by October,” he said after launching the “30-hour Famine Countdown 2010” to aid the poor at Putra Stadium in Bukit Jalil here yesterday.

“Employers will be held accountable as they are benefiting from the foreign workers. It is their responsibility to report to the authorities if their workers abscond.”

Hishammuddin warned those seeking to take advantage of the system to “think twice” as the biometric database would be comprehensive and involving 14 ministries.

“Once this is in place, we will make sure no one is above the system,” he added.

The database, he said, would also have details of workers who forged their documents as well as those who entered as “tourists” but ended up working illegally,

Hishammuddin said those who overstayed might risk being blacklisted in the future, adding that the Government was currently studying the list of actions.

However, he added flexibility would be given to sectors that were needed to make the country’s New Economic Model a success.

On the amnesty for illegal immigrants, Hishammuddin declined to reveal the date but told the illegals to be prepared.

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/8/23/nation/6902799&sec=nation

An Annual Sport Day Of Chin Student Organization Exercised

Raising the Chin flag under a morning sunrise, putting their right hands on their chests while singing the Chin anthem “Beautiful Chinland” at the opening ceremony to demonstrate how much they adore their beloved Chinland and holding a beautiful theme “Hope For The Future”, more than 500 children studying at Chin Student Organization School (CSO) have successfully celebrated its 4^th annual sport day in a suburban area of Kuala Lumpur on 20.08.2010. 

Since the CSO School was established in 2005, this sport day has been exercised annually and it is the most awaited and biggest event for the students every year. 

"It does not matter whether we are a champion of the trophy that we just play like friendly game. As a matter of fact, we just focus on boosting the children behaviors, characters and attempting to put them on a good track by having fellowship each other. Learning the school text book is not only education but also the children need to learn many things outside and require adopting all sorts of best things throughout the whole day line-ups event. The students have a warm touch with each other. It is indeed one of the purposes we design. Besides, we use this sport day as a part of farewell service for students those are supposed to resettle to third country, shortly", said a volunteer teacher Zaw Zaw and in charge of the event, too.

Blessed and gracious, Mr. Roger Khua Hup, chairman of CSO joined thanks-expressing that they greatly thank all donors and respect them on their priceless and incomparable efforts for us. Obviously, it is so sure that we will not be able to do this without their strong support. They always stand beside us and their encouragement pushes us to carry out our responsibility forward and that is what matters in our work. It’s not only they support us financially, they also actively involve in teaching the children English and Bible at school in their spare time. Moreover, I think all our donors purely deserve to be paid respect by parents, students and the Chin community body.

In a sense, it is not a surprise that the schools seem to be disabling to maintain the event continuously without the participation of donors as the parents and the schools have not sufficient fund or budget to make this event happen.

On contrary, it is learnt that the confirmed source reveals that around 180 volunteers working for the refugee education in each community in Malaysia are sponsored for small grant by Czech Republic government and its administration is under the control of UNHCR. As a part of the administration, in July credit card has been made for every said volunteer by UNHCR representatives for the purpose of transferring money.

In an interview with a community leader, he mentioned that we honestly thank UNHCR that they best create the open door for the needed volunteer for every refugee community. Until present, on so many occasions, we come to realize, as for a refugee, that we refugee can not help each other very much even if we are in the critical condition. It’s no doubt the Chin community body warmly welcomes the grant for our volunteers who amply have been suffered and suffer because we Chin can not help them and support them as needed be. Until recently, it is learnt that they never have any small grants before from any organizations according to the interview with CSO volunteers. This would be the first time they would receive great help done.

On top of the challenges, now that having the parents’ practical support is crucially important for the schools stand firm. To help develop the parents’ philosophy on education, the volunteers always try best to make awareness ahead towards the related parents in many ways. Parents are encouraged as well as the students belong to the brilliant future for they could be called “dimmer switch” for our nation as they can make our future bright or dark. 

By Salai C C & Simon

Malaysia boosts security corps accused of abuses

JULIA ZAPPEI | August 19, 2010 01:20 AM EST |

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Malaysia is expanding a volunteer security corps accused of human rights abuses and adding to its responsibities even though the new recruits won't be trained for now, the corps leader said Thursday.

The government-backed corps, known by its acronym RELA, is meant to help police and other authorities conduct neighborhood patrols and track down foreigners living in Malaysia without valid documents.

But activists have insisted in recent years that the Home Ministry should disband the force of 1.6 million volunteers because many have been accused of extorting money from illegal immigrants and physically abusing them.

Zaidon Asmuni, RELA's director general, said the corps is now trying to boost its membership to 2.6 million volunteers by the end of this year to better combat crime and take up new tasks such as guarding immigration detention centers in this nation of some 28 million people.

"In the whole country, I have instructed my men to go all out" to hold recruitment drives for new members who are at least 16 years old, Zaidon told The Associated Press.

The corps will not be able to train for all of them but believes the risk is low, he said.

"As in any department, most of them are very good. But maybe one or two are black sheep. It happens anywhere," he said.

Anyone who commits an offense would face suspension and possibly a police investigation. Though most members undergo a one-day orientation course, only some 8,000 members can be trained thoroughly each year, Zaidon said.

Hundreds of volunteers have recently been deployed to guard detention centers for illegal immigrants following the escape of 20 Afghans from one such location earlier this month, Zaidon said.

Temme Lee, an official with Malaysian human rights group Suaram, said foreigners complained of extortion by RELA members almost every day.

"The increase of RELA's role is very worrying," Lee said. "It's not right that a volunteer force should be used for enforcement."

In a report last June about refugees in Malaysia, rights group Amnesty International said "largely untrained RELA agents frequently subject the people they arrest to humiliation, physical abuse, theft and extortion."

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/huff-wires/20100819/as-malaysia-volunteer-corps/

Hundred Of Chin Refugees Arrested In Two Days Consecutive Raid

9th August,2010

Kuala Lumpur

The two days consecutive raid triggered shocks over thousand of Chin refugees and deepened anxiety especially among women and children. The raids caused at least 170 Chin refugees arrested and most of them were put in the police station, the chin community reported. 

The first raid occurred around 4:00PM on Saturday at Jalan Imbi and more than 100 people with both UNHCR card holders and just community card holders were arrested while the second raid on the next day around the same time of the previous in Jalan Imbi and Jalan Pudu just after the Sunday worship service was over and resulting around 70 people were swept again.

Similarly, on the second raid, at least 70 people including four months pregnant woman were arrested but fortunately she got released through the help of CRC protection team after being detained for a shortwhile.

“At least sixty people have already been onboarded by the time I got on their truck. At a time when we arrived at police station, other ten women arrested from several places were locked-up along with me in the same cell. In fact, I had a high feeling of anxiety over my pregnancy and besides, I am of being undocumented person. I am honestly ecstatic when my name was called to be released”, quoted Mawi Mawi as saying to VOCR.

“Most of the arrestees who hold the UNHCR card are released after checking their cards and fining RM-20 with no exceptional reason. But we cannot rescue those of non-holders of the UNHCR card because they have been directly transferred to Bukit Jalil lock-ups for further investigation. As a matter of fact, we cannot do any interventions until there’s a call from the police officer. However, they used to get us allowing intervening conditionally. And in our part, we’re hopefully waiting for a call from the police officers for their releases; the call is meant a positive result for the arrestees” a community worker said. 

It is learnt that the announcement to swipe out illegal foreigners in last year has been resumed as the raid is taking place almost every week in different areas and hundred of refugees have been rounded up in the raids. 

The Chin community wearily believes that, according to the recent storming raids, more intensive raids will likely happen especially at factory and construction sites whereas most of illegal workers and refugees are mainly working with the low-paid that the locals are hardly ever seen.

by Salai C C & Simon

Human trafficking – prosecutors to get training

KUALA LUMPUR: Prosecutors handling human trafficking cases will be given training in the subject, said Deputy Home Minister Datuk Wira Abu Seman Yusop.

He said this was to ensure that those caught and charged with the offences would not escape punishment due to lack of expertise.

“The Attorney-General’s Cham­bers is looking into speeding up the prosecution process for human trafficking cases.

“It is providing training to ensure that prosecutors are well-versed in the subject,” he said when launching the Stop Child Sex Trafficking campaign organised by The Body Shop here yesterday.

He said the training was in line with the move for effective enforcement against human trafficking following recent amendments to the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.

“We have introduced heavier penalties as a deterrent. Well-trained prosecutors will ensure that the culprits do not get away unpunished,” he said.

Under the amendments, which were approved by Dewan Negara on Aug 3, traffickers will be fined between RM500,000 and RM1mil, compared to between RM50,000 and RM500,000 previously.

The traffickers’ ill-gotten gains will also be forfeited upon conviction.

The amendments are meant to deal with the influx of illegal migrants seeking a better life in Malaysia and people using Malaysia as a transit point to get to another country.

Abu Seman said that between February 2008 and last month, authorities rescued 1,656 victims from 19 countries who had been placed under the Interim Protection Order.

Abu Seman said globally, more than 2.5 million people were trafficked each year involving transactions worth about US$38bil (RM119.5bil).

Read more: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/8/8/nation/6820902&sec=nation

43 illegal immigrants detained at construction site

GEORGE TOWN: Forty-three illegal immigrants, including two pregnant women and a four-year-old Myanmar boy, were detained in a raid at a construction site in Batu Ferringhi.

They were picked up at 10am yesterday in an operation, codenamed Ops Serantau, by 50 police, Rela and Immigration Department personnel.

State Traffic and Public Order chief Supt Wan Aziz Wan Hussain said 32 of the foreigners were men — 15 Myanmar nationals, nine Bangladeshis and eight Indonesians — while 10 were women of whom one was a runaway maid.

Supt Wan Aziz said three of the foreigners had overstayed, one had forged documents while the rest did not have any identification documents or work permits.

Big swoop: Police, Rela and immigration officers

rounding up the iilegal immigrants at the construction

site in Batu Ferringhi Friday.

Meanwhile, enforcement authorities have begun efforts to rid Batu Ferringhi of unlicensed traders, illegal operators of water sports, and pirated DVD and counterfeit goods stalls.

More than 100 officers from the police force and relevant agencies combed the tourist belt in an operation codenamed Ops Sepadu from 3pm yesterday but found the area almost free of illegal activities.

“The beach boys, touts and illegal operators knew we were coming, so most of the shops remained closed.

“This is good. We will continue to monitor the beach. Our joint operations will not be a one-off thing,” said George Town OCPD Asst Comm Gan Kong Meng.

Read more:http://www.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/7/31/nation/6773733&sec=nation

Difference between human trafficking and smuggling people

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is committing a “cardinal sin” by lumping together trafficking of people with smuggling of people in its amendments to the Trafficking In Persons Act.
 

Human Rights Watch’s Asia division deputy director Philip Robertson said the inclusion of smuggling of people would likely result in confusion and chaos among frontliners, especially enforcement, resulting in trafficking victims being detained as illegal immigrants.

Speaking at the session “Investigations: What are the Key Elements in a Trafficking-In Persons Case?” at the 15th Malaysian Law Conference yesterday, he said trafficking of people was a human rights abuse, whereas smuggling was a violation of immigration laws.

Susan French, a trial attorney with the United States’ Department of Justice’s human trafficking prosecution unit, emphasised that victims and their welfare should be of utmost priority.

Nazir speaking on ‘Growing Beyond Borders’ on the

second day of the 15th Malaysian Law Conference at

the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre Friday

Sound advice: Nazir speaking on ‘Growing Beyond Borders’ on the second day of the 15th Malaysian Law Conference at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre Friday.

 

“Victims should not be treated as criminals or detained. We want to get them out of the shadow and not fear immigration officials,” she said.

Earlier at the session “Growing Beyond Borders”, CIMB Group chief executive officer Datuk Seri Nazir Razak said one must choose a market carefully, integrate and adapt well, explore the timing and risk period; uphold integrity and be wary of corruption; and focus on value creation for clients/customers.

He said Malaysia’s challenge to improving the economy was in ensuring transformation programmes were executed quickly or investors would shy away.

Speaking at a “Freedom of Information and Investment” session, Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim said its Freedom of Information Bill which had been tabled for second reading, would make leaders accountable and enable the public to know their rights.

Read more at: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/7/31/nation/6772896&sec=nation

Crackdown on bosses with illegal workers

2010/07/30

By Farrah Naz Karim

PUTRAJAYA: The blitz on employers who hire illegal foreign workers, which was shelved earlier this year, is back.

The first to be busted was a furniture manufacturer in Subang, who was caught on Wednesday employing 66 illegal immigrants.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Abu Seman Yusop said Immigration enforcers would be going after employers who commit offences under sections 55B, 55E and 56 (1)(d) of the Immigration Act.

Hiring more than five foreigners without valid passes or travel documents is an offence under section 55B. Employers could face a jail term of not more than five years and whipped up to six times.

Those who hire fewer than five workers could face a maximum fine of RM50,000 or a 12-month jail term or both for each worker.

Those who allow illegal immigrants to enter or remain at his premises could be prosecuted under section 55E. These employers could be fined between RM5,000 and RM30,000 or face 12 months' jail or both for each illegal immigrant.

Abu Seman said the department would also hunt down those who harbour foreigners known to have contravened the Immigration Act (as mentioned in section 56 (1)(d)), adding that they faced fine of between RM10,000 and RM50,000 for each illegal immigrant they harbour.

If the number under their roof exceeds five people, they could also be whipped up to six times and jailed up to five years.

Abu Seman said the nationwide crackdown would cover all sectors that engaged foreign workers. But unlike previous operations, officers would not go to households to check on maids.

He warned employers that if they were caught breaking the law, they could be blacklisted by the ministry and be barred from hiring foreign workers, including maids.

He also cautioned employers to check on the legal status of workers from employment companies. Claiming ignorance, Abu Seman said, was not an excuse.

Errant employers, however, could find an easier way out if they owned up and arranged for the repatriation of their illegal workers. In this case, they would be let off with just a maximum RM3,000 compound.

They would also have to show the department their illegal workers' one-way ticket home.

Read more: Crackdown on bosses with illegal workers http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/14isx/Article/#ixzz0v8TP3P4w

Several Chin Refugees Traumatized

25th July, 2010

Kuala Lumpur

 

Kuala Lumpur: Couple of days ago, several Chin refugees, those are the victims of the May 23^rd accident in Thailand which resulted 13 deaths, the second greatest shock-wave news among Chin communities, reportedly happened to meet volunteer counselors critically based on their current physical ailment, traumatic related-cases and other psychological concerns.
It was, according to the reports observed in the counselors' accesses, appeared that most of the accident victims are relatively traumatized because of the deadly experiences and locked-up in Thanai (the nearby police station of the incident) and jailing in immigration camp in Bangkok by the immigration and police. Of all cases, noting by name, Ni Cang Sung, holder of CRC card was worst affected that her beloved son was one of 13 deaths.

Interviewed with the volunteer who helps interpret for the victims in sessions of counseling, all are in deep tears and hardly could reply the counselors asking and counseling. Some are of short-term traumatized and losses of memory while some are of long-term patterns medically and psychologically, continued the volunteer.

Bawi Ram, aged 12 was firstly appeared to meeting the counselor among all the victims on July 5 and then followed by his mother and younger sister of 8 year old on July 12, 2010 on the requirement of the counselors for furthering access.

The confirmed source cited that they are referred to UNHCR by the counselor because of the fact that their traumatic affairs. And, UNHCR immediately took action on those victims that they registered them under their father file in the Office of UNHCR on July 7.

The community has great hopes for the rest of those of serious victims towards their registration with the office of UNHCR as some conditions as among them are in much need of financial aide and regular medical treatment.

The VOCR team listing, as a record piled for farther needs, the victims attended in the counseling sessions as the following; Bawi Ram (stated above) on 5 July, his mother and younger sister on 12 July, Van Nawl Cung (of several injuries in the back, the head and stitches on the head and hands and loss memory), Ni Cang Sung (her son died, being psychosis and long-term trauma), Iang Hlei (short-term traumatic, the one whom many interviews had gone through with immigration), Diana (long-term traumatized and surgery on her back neck), Biak Len (long-term traumatized and loss memory).

by Simon