Trapped in Fear: The Story of Zafar, the Rohingya Challenger
Zafar Ahmad Abdul Ghani has been calling Malaysia home for almost three decades, after escaping the horror of ethnic fighting in Myanmar.
But now the country feels less like a sanctuary and more like a cage.
When a Misunderstanding Turns into a Murder‑Mish‑March
In the past year, a rumor that Zafar was demanding Malaysian citizenship caused a flood of hate, death threats, and online venom that left him and his family terrified.
- He hasn’t stepped outside his doorstep for 12 months.
- He says “I’ve not seen the earth outside.”
- He reported the false claims to the police—yet no charges have come to his door.
- He has denied any wish for citizenship or extra rights for Rohingya.
Malaysia: From Friendly Guesthouse to Hostile Jailhouse
With over 100,000 Rohingya living quietly in this Muslim-majority nation, Malaysia was once a shining example of tolerance. But things soured last year:
- Rumors spread that Rohingya were unleashing the coronavirus wave.
- Support turned to hate—an online avalanche of threats and violent calls.
- Zafar, who runs a well‑known Rohingya rights group, became a prime target.
Day‑to‑Day Terror
The voicemails, texts, and social media messages are relentless. Zafar’s phone is a hit‑list of bigoted calls and twisted requests that make him question the safety of his own home.
A screenshot evidence Reuters saw shows that personal photos and details of his family are being passed around online.
Family Woes: More Than a Personal Frown
His wife, Maslina Abu Hassan, explains the toll on their kids. They’re no longer attending school—every day is a risk. Last year, Zafar was diagnosed with depression and had to start medication to stay afloat.
The Unthinkable: Rejection From Resettlement
Linked to the UNHCR has been a shaky hope for relief. He applied to resettle elsewhere, but the UN said he didn’t meet the criteria. The office denied commenting on individual cases, citing that resettlement decisions depend on many factors and, ultimately, acceptance by host countries.
Zafar whispers:
“I can’t relax—my body, brain, heart. I cry in the night, asking why people are doing this to me.”
Key Takeaways
- One rumor can turn a welcome home into a threat zone.
- Rohingya in Malaysia face mounting hostility.
- Unresolved claims and a closed-off resettlement system leave victims feeling stranded.
- Family well‑being is at risk, with children gone from school and parents battling depression.
We still hope that international agencies will reconsider Zafar’s situation, and that someday Malaysia will truly become the safe haven that it was supposed to be.
