Komunikasi Antarabudaya Pelarian Rohingya di Malaysia: Peranan Pekerjaan dan Pendidikan dalam Akulturasi dan Integrasi

Abstract

Intercultural adaptation is a process of adjustment that involves communication between individuals and the host environment. This process occurs as long as there is "interaction" with the host environment. In Malaysia, the Rohingyas are the largest refugee population as of May 2023. This population migrated forcibly and experienced intercultural adaptation upon their arrival in Malaysia. Malaysia is not a party to the 1951 Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol. Moreover, Malaysia does not have a specific legal or administrative framework to regulate the status and rights of refugees in this country. This makes it difficult for them to get job opportunities and access to education. This study aims to delve into the intercultural adaptation experiences of Rohingya refugees in accessing employment and education in Malaysia; and applying Ager and Strang’s (2008) conceptual framework of integration. A total of 15 male Rohingya refugees residing in Klang Valley were interviewed. Data analysis found that the experience of Rohingya refugees in Malaysia in accessing employment and education is indeed challenging. Although they are having difficulties securing a job, they are able to support themselves, their families, and send money to family members abroad. In addition, employment also acts as a platform for them to learn Bahasa Melayu through communication at the workplace. Despite facing challenges in accessing education, they are still hoping their children will receive proper education. This study also found that employment and education are crucial to support intercultural communication especially related to acculturation and integration of Rohingya refugees in Malaysia. Keywords: Rohingya refugees, employment, education, acculturation, integration.