Online Hate Forces Closure of Rohingya Refugee Schools in Malaysia

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Kuala Lumpur: Rising online hate speech and misinformation targeting Rohingya refugees have forced at least nine schools serving Rohingya children to shut down across Malaysia, leaving many students too afraid to attend classes.

Teachers, activists and community leaders say harassment and threats against Rohingya children have increased in recent months, with some students reportedly being intimidated on their way to school. Many schools have suspended classes over safety concerns, while others have been closed by authorities for operating without permits.

Malaysia hosts about 120,000 Rohingya refugees registered with the United Nations, but the country does not officially recognise them as refugees. Their children are not allowed to attend public schools, making community-run learning centres their main source of education.

Rights groups have linked the recent rise in hostility to an online campaign that spread hate speech and misinformation on social media, prompting increased scrutiny of Rohingya communities. The UN refugee agency has expressed concern over the growing wave of online abuse and dehumanising narratives targeting refugees.

Teachers at schools that remain open say they have introduced extra safety measures, including cancelling outdoor activities and asking students not to wear uniforms. Activists warn that prolonged school closures could increase problems such as child labour, child marriage and begging among Rohingya children.

Pic Credit: AFP