AFTER watching some documentaries recently, I couldn’t help but feel sad seeing foreigners being treated badly, and not to mention their extreme poverty. Don’t get me started on their daily wage – an amount that is absolutely appalling.

Many Malaysians have voiced out on how foreigners here are treated, especially undocumented migrants. At times, one might say that they must really feel like victims of circumstances, and yet, they choose to stay. Why?

Well, for financial reasons, of course. But do we really know how much they contribute to our society? Many take up jobs that Malaysians refuse to do – at wet markets, in the cleaning services, handling toxic or waste materials, etc. These foreigners keep the country’s wheels turning, but many locals treat them with a questionable attitude.

I’m here to share with you the view of a foreigner, as I know how it feels. Ten years ago, I was a foreigner in Scotland and England. Though I had all my documents, it was hurtful how I was treated at times. Being a Sikh, I was occasionally reminded of my turban. I was even linked to terrorism in some places. There were times I was charged more for food and public services. Police would stop me and ask questions just because I looked different. I was also asked to stay with Asians at hostels as other people didn’t want to share their space with us.

Sounds familiar? You’re going to love the next bit. This all happened while I was serving (for a short time) with the UK’s National Health Service. Some people, knowing my profession, still treated me in the ways described earlier. It was not only hurtful, but degrading. I knew I was looking after the health of people who had no regard for me. The income wasn’t all that great, and it was a chore to make ends meet. But almost everyone took advantage of my nationality to make a quick quid.

As medical professionals, we are taught to treat patients with dignity and humanity. Regardless of whether they are from a prominent family or homeless, all get treated equally and with respect. The Malaysian Health Ministry can be proud of the fact that we treat all those who come to us for help.

Does the above sound familiar? Well, I thought you might want to know what a foreigner may be going through. The next time you see one who’s struggling, do offer them help. They are already suffering enough. Sure, there are bad apples, those who commit crimes, but that doesn’t make each and every one of them an unlawful member of society. Remember, if they weren’t here, would we be as developed as a nation?

Think about it. I feel that other ministries can take a page out of the Health Ministry’s book in terms of how we offer courtesy and respect to our patients, regardless of their nationality. – July 8, 2020.

* Dr Arvinder-Singh H.S. is a medical officer with a certificate in occupational health, master’s in health research and diploma in football medicine, and is currently pursuing a PhD in community health, focusing on adolescent athletes’ health.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.