Some 65 Rohingya refugees obtained defense from Pertubuhan Wanita Prihatin Perak (PWPP) through a joint project with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) Malaysia.
The honorary secretary of PWPP, Norzita Rabaai stated that as one of the NGOs fighting for women’s basic rights, it’s PWPP’s responsibility to defend the fate of the refugees.
“PWPP has collaborated with UNHCR as a project partner, focusing on sexual reproductive health (SRH) for women.
“We’ve identified these refugees who are suffering from a multitude of life challenges, such as unstable socio-economic aspects, female health issues, and sexual exploitation among many more, especially since the start of the Movement Control Order (MCO) March last year till present.
“Basically, they married at a young age. This is the primary cause of their insufficient knowledge to look after their health. Some are even involved with domestic violence,” she told reporters during an interview at her office in Medan Gopeng, Ipoh today (January 9).
UNHCR allocated RM65,000 for spending during the project which lasted from August 15, 2020 to December 31, 2020.
The refugees were given counselling and information regarding gender-based violence crime. They were also informed on methods to overcome issues like this and how to report to the authorities.
Norzita added that pap smear tests performed on the refugees have shown that one is believed to be suffering from cervical cancer. She is receiving further treatment at Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun (HRPB) Ipoh.
“Besides that, 12 more pregnant women were provided with advice, training and medication.
“Anyone who sympathizes with the refugees and wishes to volunteer in helping them may contact us at 05 313 0718,” she expressed.
Rosli Mansor
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