Media Toolkit to Prevent and Address Stigma Associated with the Migrant Population in Malaysia in Response to COVID-19

"Viruses do not discriminate, and neither should our response....Collectively, all parts of society need to work together to prevent and address stigma."

Public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic have increased awareness and scrutiny of migrants and refugees - not only in Malaysia but also globally. For example, it is evident that stigma related to COVID-19 can lead to a reduction in people seeking medical care or testing, as well as a reduction in people adhering to interventions, for a variety of reasons - e.g., fear of arrest, detention, and deportation among those who are undocumented.

The Risk Communication and Community Engagement Working Group of the United Nations Country Team in Malaysia contends that the media play an important role in shaping public perceptions and knowledge of these issues by providing facts, insight, and balanced information. To that end, the group has created this media toolkit, which provides a summary of the challenges migrants and non-citizens face in the context of COVID-19 in Malaysia.

With that backdrop, the resource goes on to explore how media practitioners can take an active role in supporting response efforts while reducing the risks and stigma faced by these vulnerable groups. For example: Take the opportunity to listen, learn, and document the experiences of both migrants and citizens, and share your knowledge and available information to address the fears or concerns of those you interview.

The toolkit also includes key messages, a list of social media accounts for journalists to follow, and related resources and infographics.