ZOTUNG REFUGEE CATHOLIC LEARNING CENTRE

OUR BEGININGS

Zotung Refugee Catholic Learning Centre (ZRCLC) was established in 2008 by the displaced Zotung Catholic community. Located in Kuala Lumpur, ZRCLC operates as a community school under the protection of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

We provide a safe learning environment for refugee and undocumented children who are unable to attend public schools.

Over the years, we have grown in both numbers and capabilities. Today, ZRCLC embraces over 120 children not only from Myanmar but also Indonesia, the Philippines, Syria, etc. Alongside a curriculum that includes English, Math, Science, Music, Sports, and Art, we emphasize the holistic development

of each child. This includes life skills such as self-management, self-motivation, critical discernment, respect, and social responsibility.

As of mid-2025, there are over 200,000 refugees and asylum seekers in Malaysia registered with the UNHCR with thousands more at various

stages of appeal for registration. Around 60,000 of registered refugees are children below the age of 18.

UNHCR Latest Figures At A Glance

ABOUT US

Our Mission

Our Direction

Guided by Catholic Social Teaching, our mission is to provide quality education for our refugee children by ensuring they receive the same opportunities, values, and enriching experiences as those of students attending regular schools. By investing in dedicated teachers, and fostering dignity and potential, we empower them to build fulfilling futures.

Our Direction

We aim to equip refugee children with basic but critical educational and life skills that prepare them for adulthood and assimilation - whether they resettle in a third country, continue to receive shelter in Malaysia, or return to their homeland. Through fostering communication, self-discovery, and critical thinking, we help our children uncover their innate talents

to pursue their ambitions.

Our Cause

Our Direction

Our Educators

The cycle of humanitarian crises in Myanmar has forced countless families to flee violence, persecution and disasters. After enduring dangerous journeys, those child refugees fortunate to make it to Malaysia receive little assistance, education, or health care. Vulnerable and uncertain about their future, they need hope and support. We strive to provide the tools to reclaim their dignity and rebuild their lives - one child at a time.

Our Educators

Our school is sustained by unsung heroes - most are individuals who despite facing their own challenges as adult refugees, selflessly commit to teach. Answering a higher calling, they serve not just as educators but also as administrators and caregivers to our children. ZRCLC is also fortunate to have a dedicated group of volunteers who regularly teach in person and remotely, further enriching our community.

Meet Our Educators

Our Children

Our Educators

Our Children

Our children, aged 5 to 16, are unable to attend public schools in Malaysia due to their refugee status. Some are recent arrivals while others have been with us for several years. Each has a different story. Importantly, we see each as unique individuals. Our learning centre is a safe haven where they can learn, interact with peers, receive a balanced meal. and grow; all while their parents work in low-wage jobs

to support their families.

Meet Our CHILdren

Our Finances

Our Educators

Our Children

Our learning centre depends on the generosity of individuals and NGOs. We continue to face significant operating costs—rent, utilities, teacher salaries, and educational materials—all of which remain high and continue to grow. Fees contributed by our students only cover a small portion of expenses. In the face of enduring inflation, as well as increasing need from growing refugee arrivals, every donation no matter the size makes a meaningful difference.

Donate Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Please email us at zrclcoffice@gmail.com or Whatsapp us at +65 96193163 if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Where do these children come from?

There are 60,000 UNHCR-registered refugee children in Malaysia, with thousands of others still undocumented. The majority of our children are from Myanmar and we have welcomed others from Indonesia, Syria, the Philippines, etc.

Why can't these children attend free public schools in Malaysia ?

Malaysia is not a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention, thus refugees lack legal status. As such refugee and undocumented children cannot enroll in public schools

Why are so many Myanmar nationals fleeing their country?

For decades many in Myanmar have been displaced by political instability, armed conflict, and human rights violations. The military coup in 2021 was just the latest chapter, of which the fallout was more intensive country-wide and inter-communal fighting in the world's longest ongoing civil war. Conditions in Myanmar have also been continually worsened by natural catastrophes including major typhoons, floodings and the extreme category-8 earthquake in 2025.

All these have left communities devastated, social and civil infrastructure decimated, and the economy of one of the poorest countries in the world in tatters. UN Crisis Relief estimates that 40% of Myanmar's 55 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. Myanmar is also a diverse country comprised of multiple distinct ethnicities, cultures, languages, religions, etc. Ethnic minorities are especially vulnerable, and many continue to suffer persecution. With limited access to safety, basic needs, and opportunities at home, many seek refuge in neighboring countries, hoping for peace and a chance to rebuild their lives.

EMPOWERING REFUGEE CHILDREN IN MALAYSIA

EMPOWERING REFUGEE CHILDREN IN MALAYSIA

OUR MISSION

OUR BEGININGS

Education has become too selective and elitist. It seems that only those people or persons who are at a certain level or have a certain capacity have the right to an education