Indonesian Embassy in KL Strengthens Protections for Migrant Workers and Seafarers in Malaysia

The Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is strengthening protection services for Indonesian citizens (WNI), particularly migrant workers and seafarers working in the neighbouring country. The effort was realised through a series of activities in Batam, Riau Islands, on 16 July 2026, including a workshop titled ‘Protection of Seafarers and Prevention of Problems for Indonesian Vessels in Malaysia’ and an outreach session on Legal Aid Posts for prospective migrant workers, those currently working in Malaysia, and those who have returned to Indonesia. The embassy stated that the activities involved various central and regional government bodies, Indonesian and Malaysian maritime authorities, law enforcement officials, universities, migrant worker protection agencies, placement companies, shipping companies, training institutions, and other relevant stakeholders. The cross-sector involvement is considered a crucial part of building a more comprehensive protection system for Indonesian citizens. Under the theme ‘Depart Procedurally, Work Safely, Return Prosperously,’ the event also strengthened coordination between governments, maritime authorities, shipping companies, and industry players from both Indonesia and Malaysia. Meanwhile, the legal aid post outreach session discussed expanding access to information, consultation, and legal assistance for prospective migrant workers, Indonesians currently employed in Malaysia, and those who have returned home. ‘We view the existence of legal aid posts as crucial to assisting the government in providing legal services to all levels of society, including Indonesian citizens and migrant workers who are about to depart for work abroad or have just returned from overseas,’ said Indonesian Ambassador to Malaysia Raden Dato’ Mohammad Iman Hascarya Kusumo in a written statement read by the Coordinator for Socio-Cultural Affairs at the Embassy, Fery Iswandy. The broad participation from various agencies demonstrates that protecting Indonesian citizens requires collective effort, not only from Indonesian representatives but also from all elements of government, law enforcement, educational institutions, businesses, and the community. Through this synergy, the embassy hopes that protection services for Indonesian citizens can be more optimal, while ensuring that migrant workers and Indonesian seafarers can depart procedurally, work safely and with dignity, and return home safely and prosperously.