Last year, there were expressions of sympathy from all around the world for the suffering of many people in Myanmar, but the plight of the thousands who have fled their country in desperation since then does not seem to have aroused the same degree of sympathy.

Most are simply seeking a way to earn money to survive as they have no opportunities at home, and that is what drives so many to break domestic and foreign laws in order to find work.

Unfortunately, this leads them into work situations where they are vulnerable to exploitation and, because they have violated the immigration laws of their host country, they are often treated as criminals rather than as people who deserve consideration.

There have been many instances in recent months of undocumented Myanmar workers shamelessly exploited by employers and treated in a hard-hearted fashion by agencies in both Thailand and Malaysia.

They should receive a warmer and more considerate reception, in line with Asean expressions of sympathy for the plight of the people of Myanmar.

John Gee