Indonesian Authorities Halt Illegal Migrant Worker Departure to Middle East
Indonesia is intensifying efforts to combat human trafficking as authorities prevented 29 citizens from departing for the Middle East without proper documentation on Saturday, July 12, 2025. The intervention underscores the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens from exploitation while seeking overseas employment.
Thwarted Departure at Kertajati International Airport
The attempted illegal departure was intercepted at Kertajati International Airport in Majalengka, West Java, by the West Java Migrant Worker Protection Service Center (BP3MI), operating under the auspices of the Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI). Officials acted on intelligence suggesting the group was attempting to bypass official channels for overseas work.
“After we checked with Immigration, the 29 people were suspected of leaving for work in the Middle East without using a work visa,” stated a senior BP3MI West Java official. The individuals were found to be lacking the required E-PMI Card, a registration requirement for Indonesian migrant workers managed by BP3MI West Java.
Regional Breakdown and Investigation
Of the individuals intercepted, 19 hailed from West Java province, while the remaining 10 originated from other regions of Indonesia. Authorities are now focused on identifying and prosecuting those facilitating the illegal operation.
According to officials, the 29 individuals will be transferred to the West Java BP3MI office for registration and a thorough investigation. This includes questioning to determine the identity of the agency or individuals responsible for arranging their travel. “The next step, we will bring them to the West Java BP3MI office for registration and further investigation,” the official confirmed.
Government Warnings on Unofficial Channels
The incident prompted a strong response from Minister of P2MI, Abdul Kadir Karding, who reiterated the government’s firm stance against illegal migrant worker departures. Karding emphasized the severe risks faced by individuals who seek employment abroad through unofficial channels, warning they are particularly vulnerable to exploitation and human trafficking (TPPO).
“If you work to go abroad unprocedurally like this, without a work contract, it means you can be manipulated, and later you can even be sold,” Karding cautioned. This highlights the critical importance of utilizing official recruitment pathways and securing legally binding employment contracts before traveling for work.
The government’s proactive measures reflect a growing concern over the increasing number of Indonesians attempting to work abroad illegally, often lured by false promises and facing dire conditions upon arrival. This latest intervention serves as a stark reminder of the dangers involved and the government’s dedication to safeguarding its citizens.
