Thomas Albrecht, the UNHCR’s representative in Kuala Lumpur, said misinformation could have detrimental effects on the community and that there should be a priority to strengthen evidence-based advocacy.

“Common understanding is formed in all walks of life, and differences can be put aside to work towards a greater good,” Albrecht said.

Members of the community at large could commit to “doing our part to provide more hope and opportunities for refugees”, he said in a panel discussion celebrating World Refugee Day today.

He said there are many opportunities for the government and other stakeholders to strengthen their support for refugees and explore new areas of collaboration to address Malaysia’s interests.

“Working closely in partnership is crucial in strengthening advocacy,” Albrecht said.

The Myanmar Ethnics Organisation, a volunteer group based in Kuala Lumpur, said Malaysia’s labour shortage is widely publicised, but the existence of refugees and asylum seekers is not.

The group said refugees are willing to work but are routinely ignored and said it was time to address this issue.