Reported by The Star: http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=%2F2012%2F9%2F30%2Fnorth%2F12104017&sec=North
GEORGE TOWN: Some 100 Chin and Rohingya refugees were treated to a delicious lunch and entertainment at the Refugee Carnival 2012 in New World Park.
Organised by the Northern Network for Migrants and Refugees (JUMP), the event was aimed at spreading awareness about the refugee community.
Organising chairperson Melanie Yong said refugees were often marginalised and forgotten.
JUMP committee member Emma Franks said there were about 100,000 registered refugees and asylum seekers in the country under the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
“Some 146 countries have signed the United Nations Refugee 1951 Convention and its 1967 Protocol to recognise and give protection to the refugees.
“These people need proper education, health care, basic human rights and the right to find a job for living.
“What is their future here if the Malaysian government does not recognise them?” Franks asked.
Held as part of the Local Democracy Week 2012, the carnival also saw book sales, refugees photography exhibition and a donation booth where the public can donate their clothes and household items.
The event continues today at the Little Penang Street Market at Upper Penang Road from 10am to 5pm.
Local Democracy Festival Penang 