Acehnese Reject Rohingya Refugees: How Many Are There Now?

Rohingya refugees from Myanmar continue to arrive in Aceh.

According to Antara news agency, 196 Rohingya refugees arrived in Aceh on November 14, 2023. This number continued to increase, reaching a total of 1,684 by December 11, 2023.

Based on information from the Aceh Provincial Government, as reported by Antara, these refugees are spread across shelters in Sabang City, Banda Aceh City, Pidie Regency, and Lhokseumawe City.

The increase in the number of Rohingya refugees has sparked a wave of rejection from local residents.

"There isn't a designated area for Rohingya refugees, especially when their numbers reach the thousands and their basic needs must be met; it's quite difficult," said Aceh's Acting Governor, Achmad Marzuki, as reported by CNN Indonesia on Tuesday, December 12, 2023.

"That's probably why the community is rejecting (the Rohingya refugees)," Achmad added.

He stated that the Aceh Provincial Government will immediately seek a solution, particularly regarding the provision of temporary shelters and other supporting facilities.

This is in accordance with Presidential Regulation Number 125 of 2016, which states that regional governments are responsible for providing shelter for refugees from abroad.

"That's our obligation. The bottom line is that humanity is prioritized, but it shouldn't become a problem," said Achmad.

Meanwhile, according to CNN Indonesia, the wave of public rejection has emerged at almost all Rohingya landing points in Aceh, from Bireuen, North Aceh, Sabang, and Aceh Besar.