In 2014, Abdul Haidari arrived in Indonesia, seeking asylum after a harrowing escape from his war-torn homeland of Afghanistan. His journey took him through Pakistan, Dubai, and Malaysia before reaching Indonesia, where he faced the immense challenge of navigating life as a refugee. Today, Abdul’s story has come full circle. He now lives in New Zealand, working as a Refugee Background Student Advisor at Victoria University of Wellington, where he uses his experiences to support other refugees.
The Journey to Indonesia
Abdul’s escape from Afghanistan began after he was injured while working as a journalist. “I was literally bleeding when I fled,” he recalls. The path to safety was fraught with uncertainty, with Abdul passing through several countries before arriving in Indonesia. “The destination always chooses you,” he says, emphasizing the lack of control refugees often have over their own journeys.
Upon arrival in Indonesia, Abdul promptly applied for asylum. While he received his asylum certificate quickly, gaining official refugee status took nearly three years. During this period, Abdul faced numerous challenges, including a lack of legal work opportunities and restrictions on his access to essential services.
Life in Indonesia
Abdul’s life in Indonesia was marked by hardship. Deprived of the right to work and basic services, he relied on online work and the generosity of friends. “I was fortunate to work online and receive support from my foster parents in New Zealand,” Abdul notes. His friends in Indonesia played a crucial role in helping him manage daily challenges and adapt to his new life.
Despite these difficulties, Abdul was determined to make a difference. He helped establish a learning center for refugees in Bogor, introducing the concept of a “learning center” to circumvent legal restrictions on schools. He taught English to refugee women, helping them build a sense of community and purpose despite their isolation.
The Power of Poetry
Unable to continue his journalism in Indonesia, Abdul turned to poetry as a means of expressing his frustrations and resistance. His poetry, deeply rooted in his personal experiences and the broader struggles of refugees, became a way to document and protest against the injustices he witnessed. His first book, “The Red Ribbon,” marked his transition from journalism to poetic expression.
“I felt a need to resist the dehumanizing systems faced by refugees in Indonesia,” Abdul explains. His poetry reflects not only his personal journey but also the broader plight of refugees and the Hazara people in Afghanistan, who have faced long-standing persecution. Through his words, Abdul aimed to give voice to the voiceless and challenge oppressive systems.
A New Beginning in New Zealand
In 2023, Abdul’s journey led him to New Zealand. Though the transition was challenging, especially due to the absence of his family, he found purpose in his role at Victoria University of Wellington. As a Refugee Background Student Advisor, he helps students navigate the complexities of life as refugees.
Abdul is also working to bring his mother and siblings to New Zealand, hoping to rebuild his family life in a new country. Despite the challenges, he remains dedicated to his work and advocacy for refugee rights, drawing on his experiences to inspire and support others.
Reflections and Resilience
Abdul’s reflections on writing and poetry provide insight into the complexities of trauma and healing among refugees. Writing about his experiences, including witnessing his sister’s last breath, is deeply painful, but it allows him to channel his suffering into something meaningful. “Writing about these memories feels like slowly cutting oneself,” he explains, using this metaphor to describe the depth of his pain.
Despite the emotional toll, Abdul finds reward in connecting with others, especially fellow refugees, who resonate with his work. This connection between suffering and creation highlights the potential for writing to inspire empathy and understanding.
Abdul’s poetry advocates for better treatment and compassion for refugees, emphasizing that migration is a historical constant and that these stories deserve to be heard. His message calls for solidarity and support, urging societies to treat refugees with dignity and humanity.
Abdul’s time in Indonesia was marked by challenges, including homelessness and exploitation. Yet, he found solace in the community of Cisarua, where shared language and culture provided a sense of belonging and support. He expresses deep gratitude for the kindness and hospitality he received from Indonesians, reflecting on how these experiences shaped his current outlook.
Now in New Zealand, Abdul remains committed to advocating for refugees. He encourages others waiting for resettlement to remain patient, learn new skills, and stay hopeful. His journey is a testament to resilience and the enduring strength of the human spirit, showing that even in the darkest times, there is hope for a new beginning and a new home.
Written by Syahdinar
Syahdinar is an Indonesia-based freelance journalist reporting on local environmental and human rights issues.
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