The stateless persons in Malaysia are among the most affected by the COVID-19 outbreak and the resultant stringent containment measures enforced by the authorities. Yet, their vulnerability to the pandemic and its impacts remain unacknowledged. More worryingly, they remain excluded from the national COVID-19 response plan and other social protection
measures, given their non-citizen status. Despite the exclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the interconnectedness among all the segments of our society. It has made visible the fact that we are only as strong as our weakest link. And therefore any advancement and success, whether against the ongoing pandemic or towards the overall development of our country would not be possible by leaving behind the marginalized segment of the society, particularly the stateless people.
The inclusion of the stateless persons in every aspect of our society must begin with the acknowledgement of the existence of the stateless people living amidst us and recognizing statelessness as a brewing social issue that needs to be addressed urgently. Upholding the human rights of the stateless persons and recognizing the importance of addressing statelessness in bringing a change to the lives of thousands of members of our nation affected by the issue, DHRRA Malaysia will launch the Statelessness Awareness Virtual Walk (S.A.V.W.)—a virtual campaign to bring awareness on statelessness and documentation issues—on 10th December 2020, in conjunction with Human Rights Day. Through the campaign, we aim to dedicate 100 days, from 16th January 2021 till 25th April 2021, to enhancing understanding on statelessness, its causes, and ways to address it.
S.A.V.W., which will be conducted in adherence to the SOP by the National Security Council, is the first of annual events planned by DHRRA Malaysia to raise awareness on statelessness. This virtual campaign is a part of DHRRA Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to localize Sustainable Development Goals 2030 of leaving no one behind. Thus far, the campaign has been endorsed and supported by more than 25 NGOs, and the numbers are increasing steadily. In addition, participants from more than 20 countries are also expected to join in the virtual campaign.
By joining us in this 100-day campaign, you will have the opportunity to participate in an assortment of exciting activities including the virtual walk as well as numerous online awareness-raising activities such as webinars, workshops, sharing and polling. You will also be provided with the opportunity to be a part of multi-stakeholder discussions in deliberating on ways to address statelessness in Malaysia.
So, wait no longer and join us in this significant campaign. S.A.V.W. is now open for registration. You can be a part of the campaign with a minimum contribution of RM30. You can also choose from varied Distance Categories, with varying registration fees. There will also be an opportunity to make a donation to support the campaign during the registration.
If you are still indecisive, the following reasons on why your participation in S.A.V.W. matters may seal the deal:
∙ It’s a golden opportunity to learn about statelessness, and educate your family and friends about statelessness.
∙ You can make a difference in the lives of the stateless persons by donating towards enhancing their social protection.
∙ You can have a say and have your voice heard in addressing statelessness in our county. ∙ By joining the 100-day virtual walk, you will walk towards a healthier life.
Register here: S.A.V.W Registration
For more information, you may contact Maalini Ramalo, Director for Social Protection, DHRRA Malaysia: [email protected], +6012 6356351
In the event you face any problems during the registration progress, our Registration Support Team is ready to assist and guide you through the whole process. You may reach the team through: [email protected] or +6012 2058 703.
Please also don’t forget to follow us today on Facebook (DHRRA; SAVWDHRRA), Instagram (@dhrramalaysia; @savwdhrra) and visit our website at www.dhrramalaysia.org.my
We are counting on working together with you towards uplifting the lives of stateless persons in our country. Remember, your every step counts. #countMEin
SARAVANAN M. SINAPAN
President
DHRRA Malaysia
