The Zomi People

The Zomi people are an ethnic group primarily from the mountainous regions spanning Myanmar (particularly Chin State), India, and Bangladesh. With a rich cultural heritage and distinct traditions, Zomi communities have faced significant challenges in their homeland, including political instability, religious persecution, and economic hardship.

In recent decades, many Zomi people have been forced to flee their homes due to these challenges, seeking refuge in countries like Malaysia. As asylum seekers and refugees, they face new obstacles including language barriers, lack of legal status, limited access to healthcare and education, and economic uncertainty.

Our Beginning

Zomi Association of Malaysia (ZAM) was founded in 2006 by a group of community leaders who recognized the urgent need for an organization to support the growing Zomi refugee population in Malaysia. What began as an informal network of volunteers providing translation services and emergency assistance has grown into a structured organization with multiple departments addressing various aspects of refugee welfare.

Our founders' vision was to create not just a temporary support system but a community hub that would preserve Zomi cultural identity while helping refugees navigate life in Malaysia and prepare for durable solutions, whether that means resettlement to a third country, local integration, or eventual safe return to their homeland.

Our Structure

ZAM operates as a non-profit organization registered with Malaysian authorities. We are governed by a Board of Directors elected from the community, with day-to-day operations managed by our President and a dedicated team of department heads.

Our organization is structured around seven key departments, each focused on addressing specific needs within the community:

• Healthcare Department: Coordinating medical assistance, hospital translation, and health education
• Registration Department: Assisting with UNHCR registration, documentation, and legal status issues
• Intervention Department: Providing emergency assistance during arrests, accidents, and crises
• Zomi Women Department: Supporting women through special programs, training, and advocacy
• Employment Department: Facilitating job opportunities and vocational training
• Social Welfare Department: Organizing community events, sports activities, and funeral services
• Education Department: Running learning centers for children and adult education programs

These departments work collaboratively to ensure comprehensive support for all aspects of refugee life. Our structure allows us to respond efficiently to community needs while maintaining accountability and transparency in our operations.

Our Community

The Zomi refugee community in Malaysia comprises approximately 20,000+ individuals, including families with children, young adults, and seniors. Many have been in Malaysia for years or even decades, building lives while hoping for more permanent solutions.

Our community members come from diverse backgrounds within the Zomi ethnic group, speaking various dialects and bringing unique cultural traditions. Despite these differences, they are united by shared experiences, challenges, and aspirations. ZAM serves as a central point of connection, fostering unity and preserving cultural identity while supporting integration and adaptation to life in Malaysia.