Rohingya Refugees in Malaysia Face Discrimination and Fear of Arrest Even While Praying in Mosques

Rohingya Refugees in Malaysia Face Discrimination and Fear of Arrest Even While Praying in Mosques
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Rohingya Muslim refugees in Malaysia continue to face social discrimination and fear of arrest, with some avoiding mosques and performing their prayers at home because of concerns about being detained by immigration authorities. A recent investigation by the Associated Press, published on Friday, November 6, 2026, highlights the challenges facing the community in a country with a Muslim-majority population.

The lack of formal legal recognition for refugees in Malaysia leaves many Rohingya vulnerable to arrest and detention. According to United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) figures, approximately 126,000 Rohingya were registered in Malaysia as of February 2026, facing difficulties accessing legal residency, employment, education and healthcare.

The investigation cited Christian Solidarity Worldwide as saying that Rohingya refugees face obstacles in registering their own places of worship, while some experience discrimination in local mosques. In certain neighbourhoods, signs have reportedly appeared refusing Rohingya access to particular mosques. However, other refugees described positive experiences and a warm welcome from local religious leaders.