Daily challenges and coping strategies of Chin irregular migrant workers in Malaysia: A qualitative study on health and well-being

This qualitative study examined the challenges affecting the well-being and coping strategies of Chin irregular migrant workers in Malaysia. Using non-governmental organization referrals and snowball sampling, 25 participants were recruited for semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The findings revealed that participants experienced mistreatment, discrimination, and financial exploitation from employers and co-workers because of their irregular status, ethnic background, and language barriers. Fears of detention, deportation, restricted access to public healthcare, and discriminatory treatment affected their daily mental challenges and mental health. Religious devotion, alcohol consumption, and cohabitation were found to be coping strategies for addressing struggles, some of which are harmful coping mechanisms that lead to health problems. Therefore, collaboration between Myanmar and Malaysia is crucial for regularizing migrant status, providing accessible medical care without fear of repercussions, and enabling the use of formal channels for remittances to improve the health and well-being of these individuals.