Indonesian Consulate in Johor Bahru Facilitates Return of Detained Fishermen

RRI.CO.ID, Kuala Lumpur - The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru has moved swiftly to safeguard the rights of six Bintan fishermen detained in Malaysian waters, underscoring its role in protecting nationals caught in cross-border legal disputes.

In a statement issued in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, June 18, the Consulate General confirmed that two Indonesian fishing vessels--KM Baruna Jaya and KM Hai Yang 3--with six crew members were detained by Malaysia’s marine police on May 31 near Pulau Aur, Johor.

The fishermen were accused of entering Malaysian waters without authorization and lacked travel documents at the time of arrest.Consular officials promptly sought access to the detainees, ensuring their rights were upheld during legal proceedings.

On June 16, two captains, identified as M (35) and NF (25), appeared before the Pengerang Court in Johor. The remaining four crew members--Z (36), NF (38), A (49), and H (46)--were not charged and were instead treated as witnesses, Antara reported.

After the hearing, Malaysian authorities transferred the four fishermen to Johor Bahru, where they were placed under the care of the Consulate’s temporary shelter rather than immigration detention.

The consulate is now coordinating with relevant agencies to arrange their repatriation to Indonesia at the earliest opportunity.

Meanwhile, the two captains continue to face legal proceedings in Malaysia, with the consulate providing ongoing consular assistance and protection. Officials emphasized they will closely monitor developments and share updates as the case progresses. ***