P2MI to Investigate Non-Procedural Recruitment Network After Repatriation of Migrant Worker from Libya

Minister of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) Mukhtarudin has confirmed the government will investigate an alleged non-procedural recruitment network after successfully repatriating Indonesian migrant worker Ai Juariah from Cianjur, West Java, from Libya. Ai Juariah arrived in Indonesia on Sunday (12/7) after a video of her plea for help from Libya circulated on social media and drew public attention. The 48-year-old woman from Ciranjang District, Cianjur Regency, is believed to have travelled to Libya through non-procedural channels, leaving her in a vulnerable position when facing various problems in the destination country. “Law enforcement efforts against the parties involved are very important so that the practice of non-procedural placement of migrant workers can be eradicated and does not cause further victims,” Mukhtarudin stressed. He also urged the public not to be tempted by offers to work abroad through unofficial channels, as this can eliminate access to legal protection and state services when facing problems. “The Ministry of P2MI will continue to strengthen coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, regional governments, law enforcement officials, and all stakeholders to ensure that every Indonesian migrant worker receives optimal protection at every stage of placement and when facing problems abroad,” he said. After arriving in the country, Ai Juariah received assistance from the West Java Migrant Worker Protection Service Centre (BP3MI) before being sent back to her hometown to recover with her family. Mukhtarudin said his ministry will continue to assist Ai Juariah, including assessing her condition, ensuring her rights as a migrant worker are fulfilled, and supporting her social and economic reintegration in her home region. In addition, the Ministry of P2MI will coordinate with the Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection Coordination Desk, the Human Trafficking Task Force (TPPO), law enforcement officials, and related ministries and agencies to trace the suspected illegal recruitment network. Mukhtarudin also praised the inter-ministerial and institutional synergy in providing protection to Indonesian migrant workers, which led to Ai Juariah’s successful repatriation. “The success of this repatriation is the result of close cooperation between the Ministry of P2MI, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Indonesian Embassy in Tripoli, and related ministries and agencies in ensuring the protection of Indonesian citizens facing problems abroad,” he said. “Amidst the security situation and operational challenges in Libya, solid coordination was key so that the protection and repatriation process could run smoothly,” he added.