Arakan News Agency | Special
Around one hundred Rohingya refugees held a peaceful demonstration on Monday in front of the office of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the city of Pekanbaru, Indonesia, demanding improved living conditions and humanitarian support that ensures a dignified life.
The protesters gathered on M. Jamil Street near the MTQ Bandar Serai building, where they raised banners expressing their basic demands. These included urgent medical assistance, adequate cash support, access to education for Rohingya children, improved housing and living conditions, as well as easier access to transportation and public services.
The demonstrators told “Arakan News Agency” that the lack of sufficient financial support has made it increasingly difficult to secure adequate food, pay rent, and access healthcare. They warned that this situation threatens the future of their children, who already face serious obstacles in accessing education, and noted that limited assistance has led to growing debt and psychological stress within the community.
Rohingya refugees described their situation in Pekanbaru in 2026 as one of continued hardship and instability, despite years of displacement and repeated appeals for protection.
They said that accommodation remains one of the most serious challenges, as refugees are forced to live in overcrowded housing that lacks proper ventilation, sanitation, privacy, and safety. These conditions, they stressed, have a severe impact on physical and mental health, particularly for women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
The refugees also pointed out that current cash assistance does not reflect the rising cost of living, including food, clean water, transportation, communication, and basic personal needs. As a result, many refugees are unable to meet even the most essential daily requirements.
They further highlighted limited access to healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities, noting that refugees are not allowed to work legally and lack opportunities for skills development.
According to the refugees, children and youth continue to suffer from disrupted education, raising fears of a lost generation, alongside the widespread presence of mental health problems such as trauma, depression, and anxiety caused by prolonged displacement and uncertainty about the future.
Rohingya refugees in Pekanbaru also told “Arakan News Agency” that they feel marginalized and treated unequally compared to refugees of other nationalities. They cited weak communication with responsible agencies and the absence of refugee participation in decisions that directly affect their lives.
In conclusion, the refugees called on the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Organization for Migration, local authorities, and the international community to take concrete and urgent action to improve living conditions, increase cash assistance, ensure access to basic services, and uphold humanitarian principles and refugee rights. They warned that the continuation of the current situation constitutes a serious humanitarian crisis and leaves their suffering unheard.
