Refugee Emergency Fund (REF)
Our Story
Refugee Emergency Fund (REF) is a refugee-led non-profit organisation dedicated to addressing the urgent needs and challenges faced by refugees, asylum seekers, and undocumented migrants in Malaysia. Since its inception in 2017, REF has been at the forefront of providing immediate support through crowdfunding initiatives specifically aimed at emergency cases. The organisation was established by Hasan Al-Akraa, a dedicated advocate for refugee rights, who recognized a significant gap in emergency response assistance during his transformative seven years of work within the refugee community.
Under his leadership, REF has developed a robust framework to mobilize resources and raise funds efficiently for those in dire situations. Currently, REF operates as a collective team, with each member contributing unique skills and insights to enhance the organisation's impact. The organization fiscally operates under the Al-Ikhlas Hope Society, which allows REF to be more financially and structurally efficient. With a commitment to advocacy and humanitarian aid, REF continues to respond to the urgent and evolving needs of refugees and migrants, providing them with a lifeline in critical moments.
Our Vision
Improve the wellbeing and equitable living for marginalised and displaced communities to thrive in Malaysia.
Our Mission
Provide adequate funding assistance by means of crowd-funding while empowering and building the capacity of the refugee communities by equipping them with the knowledge of personal healthcare and available services and resources. We also advocate for affordable and quality healthcare and livelihood opportunities for refugees in Malaysia through engagements and partnerships with government agencies, hospitals, service providers, and decision-makers.
Malaysia is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention or the 1967 Protocol, and with the absence of a legal framework, refugees and asylum seekers are not legally recognized by the government. This has resulted in limited access to basic human rights, including the right to work and affordable healthcare. Refugees often do odd jobs earning below the minimum wage, which is only sufficient to pay for food and rent. They are also at risk of exploitation, arrest, and detention. Refugees with UNHCR documents are able to receive a 50% discount from foreigner rates at government hospitals; however, it is not applicable to all types of treatments, and even with the discount, the cost remains significantly expensive. As a result, refugees and people seeking asylum cannot afford or access healthcare services and life-saving treatments. Here is where REF steps in to fill this critical gap.
Why REF?
Our Approach
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REF was founded by refugees for refugees to provide effective solutions to the critical needs faced by the community. We firmly uphold the principle that "nothing about us, without us," which informs our operations at every level within the organization. This commitment is foundational in our community-led approach. We also value equity and diversity; 100% of our team identify as people of color, over 80% of our team identifies as women, and 40% have lived/living experiences of forced displacement. This diverse representation enriches our understanding and enhances our ability to serve the community effectively.
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As a community-led organization, we have intentionally distanced ourselves from the conventional bureaucracy that are often seen in many institutions and their leadership structures. REF operates under a model of collective leadership that involves the active participation of all committee and staff members. Decisions are collaboratively discussed and reached through a participatory approach that ensures every voice is heard and valued. We are dedicated to maintaining this inclusive methodology, as we have witnessed the positive impact it has had on our organization and its personnel. This commitment not only enhances our organizational culture but also fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among our team members.
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We strongly value partnerships and collective work, as opposed to operating in silo. Throughout the years, we have collaborated with numerous organizations, activists, and community leaders to ensure that our resources are used in the most effective manner possible. The voice of the community is instrumental in guiding and informing our initiatives; therefore, we actively engage with community members and their leaders to ensure that our services are closely aligned with their goals and needs. Our partnership approach is anchored in the practical work we do through strategic and meaningful engagement, fostering collaboration that truly benefits the communities we serve.
