Minister P2MI Proposes Law Enforcement Unit to Combat Human Trafficking of Indonesian Workers

Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) Mukhtarudin has expressed a desire to establish a law enforcement unit within his ministry to eradicate the criminal act of human trafficking (TPPO). The statement was made during a meeting with Commission IX of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Central Jakarta, on Friday, 17 July 2026. Commission IX member Irma Suryani Chaniago initially highlighted the rampant issue of illegal migrant workers, which often culminates in TPPO cases. She urged the Ministry of P2MI to strengthen efforts to prevent illegal departures and to enhance legal protection for migrant workers in their destination countries. Responding to this, Mukhtarudin explained that the distinction between non-procedural placement and TPPO is very fine. He revealed that many TPPO cases begin with migrant workers departing illegally. The Minister stated that numerous cases start as non-procedural placements and end with the individuals becoming victims of TPPO in the destination country. He noted that handling TPPO is not solely the responsibility of the Ministry of P2MI. As a member of the TPPO Task Force, his party always coordinates with relevant ministries to handle these cases. Mukhtarudin admitted he is deeply frustrated with the TPPO issue, as the public often does not understand that when an individual working abroad becomes a victim, they are classified as a migrant worker, and complaints are directed to his ministry. He affirmed that whether the individual is a victim of TPPO or a non-procedural placement, the Ministry of P2MI is always held accountable. He pledged that his ministry, with all its ranks, will wholeheartedly strive to resolve the problems of any Indonesian citizen in distress abroad.