Zomi Association of Malaysia
Informing People, Transforming Lives
Informing People, Transforming Lives
Guiding principles that drive our humanitarian work
Zomi Association of Malaysia is dedicated to protecting, supporting, and empowering Zomi refugees and vulnerable individuals in Malaysia through comprehensive services, community building, and advocacy, while working toward durable solutions in collaboration with local and international partners.
Zomi Association of Malaysia (ZAM) was established to elevate capability building in the social community, community development, and welfare missions. We focus on health care, social care, spiritual growth, and moral support for the Zomi people in collaboration with social communities and UNHCR.
Our dedicated team works tirelessly to assist refugees from Myanmar, particularly from Chin State, who have fled due to persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of particular social groups, or political opinion.
Through our collaborative efforts with UNHCR, IOM, USCIS, DHS, RSC, local and international NGOs, faith-based organizations, and other ethnic communities, we strive to find durable solutions and provide humanitarian assistance to those in need.
Key areas of focus that fulfill our purpose
Providing immediate and ongoing support to meet the basic needs of refugees and vulnerable individuals, including healthcare, emergency intervention, and essential aid.
Fostering a strong, supportive Zomi community in Malaysia through cultural events, social activities, and creating spaces for connection and mutual support.
Providing educational opportunities for children and adults, developing skills, and building capacity for self-reliance and future opportunities.
Raising awareness about refugee issues, advocating for rights and protections, and working to create a more supportive environment for refugees in Malaysia.
Building strong relationships with UNHCR, government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to enhance our impact and develop comprehensive solutions.
Working toward long-term solutions for refugees, including resettlement, local integration, or safe return to homeland when conditions allow.
How we implement our mission through practical initiatives
Our healthcare department volunteers accompany refugees to hospital appointments, providing translation services and coordinating medical care. We also organize health education sessions and connect refugees with affordable healthcare options.
Our Zomi Education Center provides schooling for refugee children who lack access to Malaysia's formal education system. We also offer adult language classes, vocational training, and educational resources to support lifelong learning.
We organize cultural events, language classes, and traditional arts programs to preserve Zomi heritage and foster community bonds. These activities help maintain cultural identity while establishing connections in a new country.
Our Zomi Women Department provides specialized programs for refugee women, including handicraft training, literacy classes, and support groups. These initiatives help women develop skills, gain independence, and build community.
Values that shape our approach to fulfilling our mission
Our mission is guided by a set of core principles that shape how we approach our work, make decisions, and interact with the communities we serve. These principles ensure that we remain focused on our purpose while maintaining the highest ethical standards in all our activities.
We recognize the inherent dignity of every individual and treat all people with respect, regardless of their background, status, or circumstances. We approach our work with cultural sensitivity and prioritize the dignity of those we serve.
We believe in working with communities, not just for them. We involve Zomi refugees in decision-making processes, program development, and implementation, recognizing that they are the experts in their own needs and experiences.
We prioritize the safety and protection of refugees in all our activities. This includes physical safety, protection from exploitation, and safeguarding vulnerable individuals, particularly children and women.
While we provide essential services and support, our ultimate goal is to promote self-reliance and empowerment. We focus on building skills, confidence, and capacity for individuals to improve their own lives.
We are committed to transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of resources entrusted to us. We maximize our impact through efficient operations and careful management of funds and donations.
Our roadmap for advancing our mission
Strengthen our core services across all departments to meet the immediate needs of the Zomi refugee community in Malaysia. Improve coordination, reach, and quality of our healthcare, education, and social support programs.
Expand our volunteer base, enhance training programs, and develop stronger organizational systems and technology infrastructure. Focus on building internal capacity to serve more effectively and sustainably.
Develop more robust community leadership programs, expand economic empowerment initiatives, and create platforms for Zomi voices to be heard. Strengthen community resilience and self-governance.
Strengthen our advocacy efforts to improve refugee policies and protections in Malaysia. Work collaboratively with other organizations to address systemic challenges facing refugee communities.
Work with international partners to advance durable solutions for Zomi refugees, including resettlement, integration, and when possible, safe return to homeland. Focus on long-term welfare and prosperity of the Zomi community.
Measuring the difference our mission makes
We are committed to tracking and evaluating our impact to ensure we're effectively fulfilling our mission. Success for us means:
We regularly collect feedback from the community, monitor program outcomes, and adjust our approach to better fulfill our mission and meet emerging needs.
Ways you can help us make a difference
Contribute your time and skills to support our programs and make a direct impact in the lives of Zomi refugees.
Learn MoreSupport our mission financially. Your contributions help fund essential services and programs for the community.
Contact UsCollaborate with us through organizational partnerships, joint initiatives, or in-kind support and services.
Contact UsHelp raise awareness about refugee issues and advocate for policies that protect and support refugee communities.
Contact UsTogether, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of Zomi refugees and build a stronger, more supportive community.
Contact Us Today