KP2MI Oversees Case of Alleged Violence Against Three Indonesian Migrant Workers in Malaysia
The Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) is continuing to oversee the handling of a case involving three Indonesian migrant workers in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The case drew public attention after a video of alleged violence circulated on social media.
According to information from the Representative Office of the Republic of Indonesia in Johor Bahru, the case came to light after an Indonesian migrant worker with the initials YY reported alleged physical abuse to the KSATRIA service of the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Johor Bahru on 13 June 2026. In the report, YY stated that two other migrant workers, identified as YA and SH, allegedly experienced similar treatment while working as domestic helpers in Johor Bahru.
Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers Mukhtarudin said the workers frequently endured violent treatment during their employment. "One of the reported beatings occurred between late 2025 and January 2026. After the incident, the victims were abandoned by their employer in the Kampung Melayu Majidee area of Johor," Mukhtarudin stated in a written release on Monday (15/6/2026).
Mukhtarudin added that the three migrant workers were known to be working in Malaysia non-procedurally and did not possess valid work permits. Their passports were also still being held by the employer, causing the victims to fear reporting the incidents to the authorities. However, as they continued to feel their safety was threatened, one of the victims eventually decided to seek help from the Indonesian Representative Office.
In response, Mukhtarudin emphasised that KP2MI immediately coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, KJRI Johor Bahru, and the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur to ensure swift and integrated protection and assistance measures. "At the same time, KJRI Johor Bahru is also coordinating with the local police to ensure the victims’ reports are followed up in accordance with applicable legal provisions," he revealed.
Based on information received from local authorities, the Larkin District Police Headquarters (IPD) has detained four individuals suspected of being linked to the case for further investigation. Currently, two victims are under the protection of KJRI Johor Bahru and have been placed in a Temporary Shelter to receive further assistance. Meanwhile, efforts to collect one remaining victim who is in Kuala Lumpur are ongoing so that all victims receive the same protection.
The Indonesian Representative Office will also facilitate the reporting process to the police and provide legal assistance to ensure the victims’ rights are fulfilled throughout the legal process. KP2MI expressed appreciation for the swift actions taken by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, KJRI Johor Bahru, and the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur in providing protection to the victims.
"KP2MI will continue to monitor the development of this case and ensure all victims receive the necessary assistance and protection until the handling process is complete," Mukhtarudin stated. KP2MI also urged the public not to speculate about the chronology, motives, or parties involved before the legal process is completed by the competent authorities.
Mukhtarudin said the Indonesian Government respects the ongoing legal process in Malaysia and will continue to uphold the principle of protection for Indonesian migrant workers. "This case serves as an important reminder for the public to work abroad through procedural channels and in accordance with applicable regulations, so as to obtain more optimal legal and employment protection," he concluded.