KJRI Johor Handles Repatriation of Four Indonesian Fishermen from Malaysia

The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Johor Bahru is handling the repatriation of four Indonesian fishermen from Bintan, Riau Islands, after they were released by Malaysian authorities. In a media statement in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday (18/6), the KJRI said that on 31 May 2026, two Indonesian fishing vessels — KM Baruna Jaya and KM Hai Yang 3 — with a total of six crew members were detained by the Malaysian Marine Police in waters around Aur Island, Johor. The six fishermen were suspected of entering Malaysian waters without permission and, at the time of arrest, did not carry travel documents. After receiving information about the arrests, KJRI Johor Bahru immediately requested consular access from the relevant authorities to meet the fishermen. The KJRI also ensured their condition and the fulfilment of their rights while undergoing legal proceedings and trial. On 16 June 2026, two captains with the initials M (35) and NF (25) stood trial at the Pengerang Magistrate’s Court in Johor. Meanwhile, the four other crew members, with the initials Z (36), NF (38), A (49), and H (46), were not charged and held witness status. After the trial, the four crew members were taken by the relevant authorities to Johor Bahru. Following coordination with Malaysian immigration authorities, the four fishermen were not placed in an immigration detention centre and were subsequently accommodated at the KJRI Johor Bahru Temporary Residence. The KJRI is currently coordinating with relevant parties to facilitate the repatriation of the four fishermen to Indonesia at the earliest opportunity. The two captains who are still undergoing legal proceedings with the Malaysian authorities will continue to receive consular assistance and protection, the KJRI Johor Bahru stated. The KJRI said it will continue to monitor the progress of this case and provide further information as it develops.