Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection Prepares Evacuation Scenarios for Indonesian Workers in Middle East

The Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection Indonesia (KP2MI) is preparing evacuation scenarios for Indonesian migrant workers located in the Middle East region. This measure is being undertaken in response to the ongoing conflict between the United States-Israel and Iran.

Minister of Migrant Worker Protection Mukhtarudin stated that simulations of evacuation scenarios and options for temporarily halting placements to high-risk areas have been prepared as a precautionary measure in case of further escalation.

“We are preparing various scenarios, including evacuation and stricter placement procedures. All measures are based on factual information, diplomatic coordination, and the principle of prudence,” Mukhtarudin said in a written statement on Tuesday, 3 March 2026.

Since the conflict intensified and caused several Middle Eastern regions to be affected in late February, Mukhtarudin claimed the government immediately activated crisis management mechanisms.

KP2MI has established a geopolitical crisis monitoring team to update data in real-time regarding thousands of Indonesian migrant workers in affected countries, particularly in areas that experienced the impact of attacks such as Qatar and areas surrounding military installations.

Mukhtarudin explained that KP2MI, together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Indonesian representations in several countries including Tehran, Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, has been coordinating to synchronise data and prepare contingency plans.

He stated that mapping of high-risk zones continues to be updated to support rapid and measured decision-making. “Monitoring is conducted daily in an integrated manner with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all Indonesian diplomatic missions in the region,” he said.

As a mitigation measure, Mukhtarudin urged Indonesian migrant workers to avoid conflict zones, military bases, and potentially dangerous locations, and to relocate to safer areas if necessary. The public was also advised to remain calm, follow official guidance from Indonesian representations, and immediately report emergency conditions through official channels available.

“The government ensures that every report will be followed up through assistance and advocacy mechanisms to guarantee the protection of the rights of Indonesian migrant workers amid global geopolitical dynamics,” Mukhtarudin said.