Jakarta: More than 260 Rohingya refugees have landed in Indonesia’s Aceh province, fleeing violence in Myanmar.
The refugees arrived on two boats, stranded at sea before being rescued and brought to East Aceh.
Local authorities confirmed the arrival, with the police chief saying fishermen reported seeing the stranded boats.
Surya Dharma, the police chief, added that the refugees would be taken to a nearby camp in Peureulak Timur.
History of Rohingya Arrivals in Indonesia
This marks another chapter in Indonesia’s role as a refuge for Rohingya escaping persecution in Myanmar.
In November, Indonesian fishermen rescued 116 Rohingya refugees after their boat sank off Aceh’s coast.
Indonesia has long served as a key destination for refugees alongside Bangladesh, who flee via sea routes.
Rohingya refugees continue to face immense challenges, as they escape Myanmar’s junta regime and armed conflicts.
Regional Refugee Crisis Expands
Elsewhere, Malaysia has also been dealing with Rohingya arrivals in recent days.On Friday, authorities detained 196 refugees after their boat ran aground on Langkawi’s Teluk Yu beach.
On Saturday, Malaysia turned away two boats carrying approximately 300 additional Rohingya refugees.
These arrivals highlight the ongoing refugee crisis, with Myanmar’s persecution forcing many to seek safety abroad.
Increasing Refugee Numbers Prompt International Concerns
The influx of refugees is drawing attention to the escalating crisis in Myanmar.
Local and international groups continue to advocate for more support and protection for displaced Rohingya families.
The refugee camps in Aceh, and other countries, are struggling to accommodate the growing number of refugees.
Despite ongoing challenges, Indonesia and neighboring nations remain critical destinations for Rohingya seeking refuge.