The population gap between the Orang Asli community and Rohingya refugees in Malaysia is reportedly getting smaller, raising questions over how the country should manage both communities moving forward.
According to Sinar Harian, data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) showed that the Orang Asli population in Malaysia was estimated to have increased to 227,900 people in 2025, compared to 213,461 in 2020.
The figure was previously announced by Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin, based on DOSM’s Special Report on Orang Asli Demographics.
Rohingya population also rising
At the same time, data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) showed that around 126,000 registered Rohingya were in Malaysia as of February.
However, UKM international law expert Professor Dr Salawati Mat Basir reportedly said the actual number could now be more than 200,000, including those who are not registered.
This means the Rohingya population in Malaysia may already be close to the Orang Asli population, especially if unregistered individuals are included in the estimate.
The report said that if the current trend continues through births and new arrivals, the Rohingya population could potentially come close to or even surpass the Orang Asli population in the coming decades.
However, this depends on several factors, including border control, enforcement efforts, resettlement of refugees to third countries, and the political situation in Myanmar.
But the two groups are not the same
While the numbers may look close, the report also stressed that the comparison should not be seen only from a population angle.
The Orang Asli are the indigenous people of the country and hold a unique position in Malaysia’s history and legal framework.
On the other hand, many Rohingya in Malaysia are refugees or asylum seekers who do not have clear citizenship status.
Because of this, population size alone does not reflect the political influence, legal status, or rights of both communities.
Concerns over jobs, facilities and identity
The issue has also raised concerns among some members of the public over job competition, public facilities, and national identity.
However, the bigger question is not just about numbers, but how Malaysia can manage the refugee issue while continuing to protect the welfare and rights of the Orang Asli community.
The report said Malaysia will need to find a balanced approach to handle the Rohingya refugee situation while also ensuring that the country’s indigenous communities are not neglected.
In the long run, how Malaysia manages both issues could play an important role in the country’s social stability.
