Mataram Migrant Worker Viral After Claiming to be Sold in Myanmar Confirmed as Procedurally Irregular
Muhamad Yanuar Fikri (26), an Indonesian migrant worker (PMI) from Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), has been confirmed to have an irregular status. Yanuar previously went viral on social media after claiming to be a victim of human trafficking (TPPO) in Myanmar.
Yanuar’s status as an irregular migrant worker was confirmed after the Mataram Manpower Office (Disnaker) conducted checks and coordinated with the West Nusa Tenggara Manpower and Transmigration Office (Disnakertrans NTB). His name was not found in the official departmental records. Furthermore, the existence of the company that arranged his departure remains unknown.
“So, in technical terms, it is not illegal, but rather procedurally irregular. It is likely that he did not depart using the correct procedures. Because in our records at the Manpower Office, his name cannot be found. The sending company is also unknown,” said Putra when confirmed on Tuesday (29/09/2026).
Putra ensured that Yanuar is currently receiving assistance from the Myanmar police, despite his irregular departure. Further handling of the case is being managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemenlu). According to Yanuar, cases involving citizens abroad fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
On the other hand, Putra urged residents of Mataram to always report and coordinate with authorities if they intend to work abroad. This is essential to prevent similar incidents from recurring.
“I have said many times, please continue to report and coordinate with the Manpower Office if you wish to go abroad. This means that if we know in advance, we can verify the sending company. Do not let the company be illegal or unregistered. If the company is not registered, it cannot guarantee the safety of the migrant worker,” stated Putra.
It was previously reported that a video of an Indonesian migrant worker from Mataram, Muhamad Yanuar Fikri (26), went viral on social media. In the video, Yanuar claimed to be a victim of human trafficking in Myanmar and stated he was about to be sold to another company. He also claimed to be ill and that his family had been asked to prepare a ransom of Rp 70 million.
Yanuar is known to reside in Karang Kelok Baru, Selaparang District, Mataram. He claimed he was initially promised work in trading in Myanmar. However, upon arrival, he was instead forced to work in a scam centre.