Decision-Making, Irregular Migration, and Benefits: A Case of Chin Migrant Workers in Malaysia

Abstract:Malaysia is a primary destination country for many economic migrants from Myanmar, including those from Chin State. Their remittances are essential sources of income for their families' survival. However, the diversity of workers' migration experiences, the challenges to finding regular migration pathways, and finally, the benefits of working in Malaysia remain unclear. This study employed nongovernmental referrals and snowball sampling to explore the above research questions. Findings indicate that the primary driving factors for Chin people's migration are poverty, a decline in agricultural production due to climate change, and a lack of employment opportunities at home. In addition, in Myanmar, people in Chin State experience structural discrimination based on ethnicity, religious affiliation, military oppression, and human rights violations. Barriers to regular migration include: (1) access to broker services; (2) the high cost of a legal work permit; (3) complicated paperwork and lengthy bureaucratic procedure; (4) geographical challenges to accessing the registration center; and (5) the high cost of living in the city while waiting for application results. For many, the irregular migration journey is a huge sacrifice, though female migrants are especially vulnerable, including to sexual harassment by brokers. However, the higher wages they can earn in Malaysia sometimes enable them to repay their debts and support their family's basic needs and welfare. The findings suggest that the national and local governments must enhance the socioeconomic conditions of the Chin people to minimize the "push factors" as well as streamline the regular migration process to facilitate those who choose to migrate.