A Mixed-Methods Study · Urban Malaysia · 2026
Zomi refugees in Malaysia work, raise children, seek medical care, and build community without legal status, and often without documentation of any kind. This study is a careful record of how they do it, told through a survey of 90 adults and 36 in-depth interviews.
What the survey found
reported having UNHCR-related documentation. Malaysia has no national asylum system.
reported feeling afraid that something awful might happen nearly every day.
households with children reported a formal schooling arrangement for them.
screened positive for elevated depressive or anxiety symptoms on at least one standardized measure.
Figures describe the 90 survey participants and are not statistically generalizable to all Zomi people in Malaysia. Methods and limitations are detailed in the full report.
The publications
Narrative Article
Work, family, and hope among Zomi refugees in Malaysia
The study told through the lives of three people: a waiter stopped by police with no valid documents, a mother weighing school fees against safety, and a woman managing chronic illness across a language barrier. Written for every reader.
Complete Report
Findings from a mixed-methods study of Zomi refugee experiences, wellbeing, and community in urban Malaysia
The full study: methodology, participant characteristics, findings across documentation, work, housing, healthcare, education, mental health, and community, with recommendations, limitations, and directions for future research.
“I hope refugees can live with more stability, safety, and opportunities in the future.”Study participant, 2026