Indonesian Consulate Facilitates Return of 757 Migrant Workers

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru has coordinated the repatriation of 757 Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) deported from Malaysia throughout 2026, underscoring ongoing efforts to protect citizens abroad.

The deportations were carried out in four phases via Batam Centre International Ferry Terminal in Batam City.

“Throughout 2026, the Consulate has facilitated the deportation of 757 Indonesian nationals and migrant workers,” said Jati H. Winarto, Consular Affairs Officer at the Consulate, during the latest repatriation of 148 individuals on Friday, February 13, 2026.

Of the 148 deportees - 110 men and 38 women - one was returned with HIV status. Most originated from East Java (45), North Sumatra (28), West Nusa Tenggara (12), Aceh (9), West Sumatra (7), and West Java (7). They were deported primarily for immigration violations.

To assist those lacking travel documents, the Consulate in Johor Bahru, together with the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, issued 90 temporary travel documents (SPLP).

Jati noted that while the Consulate strives to expedite deportations for those who have completed detention, delays often occur due to missing documentation. He urged Indonesians seeking work in Malaysia to comply with local laws and regulations to avoid legal issues.

Since December 2024, Malaysian Immigration Department has also repatriated 2,210 Indonesians through its Mandiri Program (Division M). Earlier repatriations included 163 individuals on January 8, 133 on January 29, and 45 on February 5. ***