As the political landscape in Syria undergoes a seismic shift with the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad, Syrian refugees in Malaysia grapple with a complex mix of emotions. While many rejoice at the potential end of a regime that has long been characterized by brutality, they also harbor deep fears about what comes next. Currently, Malaysia hosts nearly 200,000 refugees and asylum seekers, a significant portion of whom hail from Myanmar, but it has also become the leading refuge for Syrians in Southeast Asia.
The Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which has been designated as a terrorist organization by the United Nations Security Council, played a pivotal role in the offensive that led to Assad's decline. This development has left many refugees questioning their future and considering their options for returning home. The United Nations has previously pointed to Assad and his officials as responsible for war crimes, further complicating the emotional landscape for those displaced.
Despite being a host country for numerous refugees, Malaysia is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and its 1967 protocol, which limits the rights of refugees within its borders. Under the Immigration Act, many of these individuals are classified as undocumented migrants, unable to work legally. However, the Malaysian government has issued temporary work permits to some Syrian refugees, allowing them the opportunity to support themselves.
Syrian refugees typically enter Malaysia on social visit passes, although some arrive through illegal means. The recent political changes have ignited hope for many who wish to return; however, uncertainty still looms large. The UNHCR and the Malaysian Bar Council Committee on Migrants and Refugees advise against forced repatriation until conditions in Syria stabilize. They stress that any returns must be voluntary and dignified.
“I am scared that Syria might move from the hands of a dictatorship to one that is jihadist, which might be worse,” said Somar, reflecting the trepidation felt by many. “It’s the calm before the big storm.”
Rema Jamous Imseis, a representative from UNHCR, emphasized the ongoing need for protection: “Syrians inside and outside the country still need protection and support. It is important to maintain protection for those who have already found refuge in host countries and that they are not forced to return to Syria.”
The situation remains fluid in Syria, with no clear picture emerging about the future governance of the country. “What we have is a situation where the old regime is gone but as far as the new government is concerned, there is no clarity yet,” stated M. Ramachelvam. “It remains to be seen if the country will descend into civil chaos again.”
Amid these uncertainties, many refugees express a longing for home but recognize the risks involved in returning too soon. Ammar stated, “I would like to go home if it’s safe and I can get a good life. All I seek is hope, the most important driver for any human being.”
Adnan shared similar sentiments of optimism mixed with caution: “Whatever that is going to happen, it’s not going to be any worse than it has been after their brutal ways of ruling the people.” However, he acknowledged that conditions are still not favorable for return.
Refugees are aware that any repatriation must be conducted orderly and with consent. “We cannot forcefully repatriate the rest until there is more clarity,” Ramachelvam noted. “Even repatriation must be done in an orderly fashion with the agreement of the countries and the individuals concerned.”
The emotional toll of displacement is evident among this community. Ammar remarked, “It isn’t 100 percent now; only about 30 percent. I want to return one day, but not yet.” He recalled his joy when news broke of Assad’s regime falling: “I was really happy the day the regime fell, and I couldn’t sleep all night just watching the news. The mob had been running the country for 53 years, and we are extremely happy to get rid of them.”
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