Zomi Community Research

A Mixed-Methods Study · Urban Malaysia · 2026

Lives in Limbo

Zomi refugees in Malaysia work, raise children, seek medical care, and build community without legal status. This study is a careful record of how they do it, told through a survey of 90 adults and 36 in-depth interviews.

90 survey participants
36 in-depth interviews
18 chapters
Published by Zomi Community USA
1 in 3

reported having UNHCR-related documentation. Malaysia has no national asylum system.

60%

reported feeling afraid that something awful might happen nearly every day.

1 in 10

households with children reported a formal schooling arrangement for them.

62%

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.

Narrative Article

Lives in Limbo

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.

A 15-minute read Read online →

Complete Report

Lives in Limbo

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
MCSMary Cing Lian Siam

Mary Cing Lian Siam

Research Coordinator

CMDCing Mun Dim

Cing Mun Dim

CSMCing Sawm Mang

Cing Sawm Mang

DSNDim Sian Nem

Dim Sian Nem

LKL. Kaichinpau

L. Kaichinpau

LMMLangh Muan Mung

Langh Muan Mung

LCTLian Cin Thawng

Lian Cin Thawng

LKSLun Kop Siam

Lun Kop Siam

MHS

Mang Ho Sung

NHCNiang Hoih Cing

Niang Hoih Cing

NSNNiang Sian Nuam

Niang Sian Nuam

NSSNuam Sian Sang

Nuam Sian Sang

TSHNThuam Sian Huai Nging

Thuam Sian Huai Nging

VDCVung Dim Cing

Vung Dim Cing