RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The repatriation of Indonesian victims who died in a boat accident off the western waters of Pangkor Island, Perak, Malaysia, will proceed once DNA testing is completed. The accident, which occurred on Monday, May 11, 2026, involved 37 Indonesian nationals and claimed 16 lives.

“Repatriation of the victims’ remains is still pending DNA verification,” Director of Indonesian Citizens’ Protection at the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Heni Hamidah, said in a written statement to RRI on Monday, June 1, 2026.

Earlier, on May 29, the ministry confirmed the death toll based on coordination with Teluk Intan Hospital. To expedite identification, the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur has been working with the National Police to trace victims’ families and collect DNA samples for comparison.

The Indonesian government, through the embassy, continues to closely monitor developments, coordinating with authorities in both Malaysia and Indonesia, while maintaining active communication with victims’ families to provide updates as part of its protection commitment.

The embassy has also obtained updated information on survivors, meeting directly with 18 Indonesians and monitoring the condition of five others undergoing further investigation.

Intensive coordination has been established with Malaysian authorities, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM), Manjung District Police, the Department of Public Health, and Teluk Intan Hospital.

The meeting with survivors was aimed at verifying identities, gathering information, and ensuring their well-being. Initial identification shows they come from Aceh, North Sumatra, Riau Islands, Lampung, Banten, West Nusa Tenggara, East Nusa Tenggara, and Southeast Sulawesi.

Meanwhile, five Indonesians remain under investigation by PDRM for suspected involvement in illegal migrant smuggling. All survivors are reported to be in good health.

The government has urged families who believe their relatives may be among the victims, or who need further information, to contact the Indonesian Embassy’s Protection Hotline in Kuala Lumpur at +60 17-668-8032. (Misni Parjiati)