Rohingya refugees risk dangerous sea route to Indonesia in search of safety and freedom

The refugees have faced a mixed reception after arriving in Indonesia. Some boats have been prevented from landing, a response heavily influenced by an online campaign of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech against the Rohingya.

Despite this, many local Acehnese continue to show them solidarity and support. At the convention hall site, local people often bring food, clothes and other donations for the refugees while their basic needs are provided for by UNHCR and its partners.

"I am thankful to the people in Indonesia," said Jannatara. "When I was still pregnant, everyone helped me in the hospital. Now they also give me the mattress for the baby, the clothes and medical care."

When Sofia and her family landed in Kulam Batee, local people gave them soap, shampoo, clean drinking water and clothes.

"The Rohingya refugees are no stranger to us, we know that they are not acknowledged as citizens in their home country, and that is why they come here to look for a new life that is decent for them and their family," said a local villager in Kulam Batee who did not wish to be named. "Sometimes we bring fruit and fish because they obviously can't just eat rice all the time."

"However, we can only accommodate and help them temporarily," he added.