K'Cho community gathering

About Us

Understanding the CEAM community and our mission in Malaysia

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K'Cho Ethnic Association Malaysia (CEAM) is a Community-Based Organization supporting K'Cho refugees and asylum-seekers in Malaysia. Our community consists of individuals who have fled conflict and persecution in Myanmar, seeking safety and a chance for a better life.

Who Are the K'Cho People?

The K'Cho people come from the mountainous regions of southern Chin State, Myanmar—particularly from Mindat, Kanpetlet, Matupi, Paletwa, and surrounding areas. A distinct ethnic community known for its rich cultural traditions, close-knit social structure, and deep respect for faith and heritage. For generations, the K'Cho people lived in the highlands of Chin State, maintaining culturally rooted governance systems and community life. Due to conflict, persecution, and systemic hardship in Myanmar, many K'Cho families have sought refuge in Malaysia in search of safety and stability.

Our community includes Mindat K'Cho, Kanpetlet K'Cho, Matupi K'Cho, and K'Cho groups from Paletwa and the Yaw regions. Christianity is practiced by the majority of the community, with church groups serving as cultural and spiritual support networks. Despite Malaysia’s restrictions on formal employment for refugees, the community shows remarkable resilience through informal work, small-scale trades, and mutual support.

K'Cho refugees continue to face limited access to healthcare, education, documentation, and long-term protection—all intensified by displacement. Through language programs, cultural gatherings, and intergenerational storytelling, our community actively preserves K'Cho identity while navigating life in Malaysia.

Our Language

K'Cho (Mün dialect) is the primary language of our community, with Dai(also Daai) , M'Kaang and Daa Yindu dialects also being spoken. Recognition and support for K'Cho language in translation and interpretation remain essential

Our Mission

  • Empowerment & Protection: Protecting the well-being and rights of K'Cho refugees through community services, advocacy, and partnerships that support dignified living and access to resources.
  • Cultural Preservation: Sustaining the K'Cho identity through language programs, cultural heritage initiatives, traditional arts, and community celebrations.
  • Community Integration: Fostering respectful coexistence and constructive engagement with Malaysian society through cultural exchange and community participation.

Our Ethical Commitments

  • Transparent leadership grounded in democratic community participation
  • Clear Code of Conduct for all volunteers and committee members
  • Respect for Malaysian laws and host community expectations
  • Cultural sensitivity and responsible community representation
  • Accountability to beneficiaries and partner organizations
  • Non-discrimination in service provision
  • Strong child protection and safeguarding standards
  • Responsible handling of all personal and community data