By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar
JAKARTA, Feb 4 (Bernama) -- At least four coastal areas in Indonesia’s Riau province are suspected of being key points for the illegal shipment of migrant workers, local authorities revealed following investigations in the Riau Peninsula, which borders Malaysia.
The Indonesian Migrant Workers Protection and Service Centre (BP3MI) in Riau has identified these areas as Medang Kampai in Dumai City, Rupat in Bengkalis, the coast of Indragiri Hilir, and Bagan Siapiapi in Rokan Hilir.
Riau BP3MI head Fanny Wahyu Kurniawan said the centre is working closely with local police, the military, immigration authorities, and regional governments to curb illegal migration to Malaysia and other countries.
“We need support from various parties and the public to identify illegal shelters for migrant workers. The issue of migrant workers is not just BP3MI’s responsibility, but requires cooperation from all parties and stakeholders,” he said, as reported by the Media Centre Riau.
In response to the increasing deportation of illegal Indonesian migrant workers from Malaysia, he pointed out that the issue is tied to the high number of unauthorised departures from these coastal regions.
Migrant workers often attempt to cross into Malaysia without proper documentation, despite the fact that working abroad requires thorough preparation and legal papers.
Fanny urged the public to ensure they go through official channels when planning to work abroad, warning against falling victim to individuals offering illegal migration routes.
“If you want to work abroad, follow the rules and procedures, as well as the necessary legal requirements. Avoid individuals or syndicates that promise instant or illegal work opportunities. By following government regulations, 100-per cent protection can be guaranteed,” he added.
Protecting migrant workers, referred to locally as "Pahlawan Devisa" (heroes of foreign exchange), is a key priority for the Indonesian government under Law No. 18 of 2017, which ensures protection throughout the migration process.
The Indonesian government offers pre-departure training, legal documentation, and information on working conditions, while strictly regulating recruitment agencies to prevent illegal practices.
Abroad, migrant workers receive legal, healthcare and emergency support through Indonesian embassies and consulates, and upon return, they are assisted with reintegration through retraining, entrepreneurship support, and counselling.
This underscores Indonesia’s commitment to migrant workers’ rights and welfare, while recognising their significant economic role, with remittances expected to increase by 14 per cent, reaching 251.1 trillion rupiah (about US$15.38 billion) last year, according to the Indonesian Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection.
-- BERNAMA
