JAKARTA, Indonesia: The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has urged Indonesia to rescue over 100 Rohingya refugees stranded off the coast of Aceh.
The refugees, including women and children, are part of the persecuted Rohingya minority fleeing Myanmar, where they face harsh discrimination. These refugees risk their lives annually in dangerous sea voyages, attempting to reach safety in countries like Indonesia or Malaysia.
The boat, which had been anchored approximately four miles from the coast, was pulled closer to shore, but no rescue has been initiated yet. UNHCR’s Faisal Rahman appealed for an immediate rescue and safe disembarkation, emphasizing the agency’s readiness to provide support.
Five refugees were evacuated for medical treatment last week, while one refugee died aboard the vessel. Local officials in South Aceh are awaiting immigration authorities’ decisions before proceeding. Negotiations between the Indonesian government and the UN are ongoing, as Indonesia is not a signatory to the UN refugee convention and is calling for regional cooperation to manage the refugee influx.
The situation remains tense, with some local Acehnese expressing support for the refugees, while others voice concerns about strained resources.