Jakarta. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has urged the Indonesian government to rescue a boat adrift off the western coast of Aceh, carrying more than 100 Rohingya refugees, including women and children.

The Rohingya, a predominantly Muslim ethnic group, face persecution in Myanmar. Thousands risk their lives each year on perilous sea journeys in an attempt to reach Malaysia or Indonesia.

The boat, believed to be carrying over 100 refugees, has been anchored about 6 kilometers off the coast of Aceh province. However, on Monday, Oct. 21, another boat towed it away by 1.6 kilometers.

"UNHCR urges authorities to ensure a maritime rescue and safe landing for this desperate group," said Faisal Rahman from UNHCR in Indonesia on Tuesday. "UNHCR and its partners are ready to support and provide much-needed assistance to these vulnerable people," he added.

Five Rohingya were evacuated last Thursday for medical treatment at a local hospital in Indonesia. According to officials in South Aceh, one refugee died while on the boat.

Rahman said that negotiations between the UN and the government are ongoing. Indonesia is not a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention and has asserted that it cannot be compelled to accept refugees from Myanmar. Instead, Indonesia has called on neighboring countries to share the burden and accommodate the Rohingya arriving in its territory.

While many people in Aceh sympathize with the plight of the Rohingya, others claim that the Rohingya often cause problems and are involved in conflicts with local residents.

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