Non-State Humanitarian Activism and Migrant Workers in Malaysia

Based on empirical research the existence of a phenomenon of humanitarian activism whereby Indonesian migrant workers voluntarily helps fellow countrymen facing difficulties both on a case-by-case basis as well on an on-going basis. Equally importantly, they have close and constructive relations with the key members of local society including police and community leaders. Their good deeds in this humanitarian context contribute to trust and confidence-building with the locals. The questions posed: What drives these folks' actions? What sort of projects have they carried out together? How does this phenomenon fit into or contribute to the literature or even the theory of international relations (IR)? This article argues that through dead body management, their presence can contribute positively to humanity, at least for the community when state actors have limitations. Religious and social motivations combine to form potent forces that can support migrant workers to provide a helping hand to those in need. Their good deeds can also offer a fresh perspective on humanitarian activism, which up until now has been dominated by conflict narratives. It is exactly fresh perspective which this paper makes an important contribution to by focusing on migrant workers, humanity, and peace.