KBRN, Tangerang: A staggering 95 percent of Indonesian migrant workers (PMIs) are victims of smuggling and human trafficking crime (TPPO) when working abroad. This fact was revealed by the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) Minister Abdul Kadir Karding.

"Based on the data we have seen, an average of 90 to 95 percent of PMIs encounter problems. Starting from non-procedural employment, human trafficking, to intimidation," said Karding in Tangerang, Banten, on Thursday (Dec 26), as reported by rri.co.id.

Given the high number of non-procedural PMIs, the ministry will focus on increasing the skills and capabilities of Indonesian workers to be more competitive for overseas employment.

Karding noted that Indonesia can only meet the demand for 287,000 workers from overseas labor. This number is far below the quota of 1.3 million procedural workers with good skills.

He emphasized that the issue of overseas employment will be a top priority for the government. To address this, the ministry consistently strives to eradicate human trafficking syndicates and individuals involved in smuggling.

"To protect PMIs, we need to conduct a thorough analysis to identify the problems and potentials that can be optimized for the benefit of the country and society," said Karding.

He revealed preventive measures such as maximizing services for the PMI and conducting massive campaigns related to overseas employment procedurally and safely.

"We are now collaborating with all local administrations, from the village, district/city to provincial levels, to address this issue," he said.

Karding added that his ministry is focused on minimizing the cases of non-procedural employment. This includes enhancing cooperation with countries such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Germany, and other European countries.

"The most cases are in the Middle East, such as Saudi Arabia. And also Malaysia. However, during the current moratorium, we will also improve the system," he concluded. ***