Repatriation of Indonesian Migrant Worker from Japan to Proceed, Funded by Donations

The repatriation of the remains of Indonesian migrant worker (PMI) Kadek Mas Heriadi (34), originally from Jembrana, from Japan has finally reached a breakthrough. Following a lengthy process, the remains are scheduled to be returned to his hometown in Bali on Friday, 5 June 2026.

I Gede Jumbawan, an advisor to the Ibaraki Balinese Association (Asobi), explained that his organisation, alongside fellow migrant workers in Japan, is continuing to manage the repatriation process. The costs for the repatriation are sourced entirely from the solidarity of fellow migrant workers.

“Donations collected within less than a week have reached approximately Rp 150 million. The repatriation process began yesterday, and God willing, the remains will arrive at the funeral home before the Galungan festival,” said Jumbawan, commonly known as Habe Jum, when confirmed on Tuesday, 2 June 2026.

Habe Jum emphasised that all repatriation expenses are being funded solely through contributions from the deceased’s colleagues, without government assistance. Asobi representatives are still working to finalise the necessary administration in Japan.

“The repatriation is scheduled for 5 June 2026, but there are still documents that must be completed first,” added Habe Jum.

The Head of the Jembrana Manpower and Industry Office (Disnakerperin), Kadek Mirah Ananta Sukma Dewi, explained that all required documents for the repatriation process have been submitted to the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Tokyo. Although the repatriation is planned for Friday, 5 June 2026, the Jembrana office is still awaiting official confirmation regarding the documents from the Indonesian Embassy.

“Once the facsimile (brafax) from the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo is issued, along with the Airway Bill, the exact time of repatriation can be confirmed. Current information indicates the date is 5 June,” said Mirah.

If all paperwork is completed and the remains arrive in Bali, the Jembrana Regency Government has committed to facilitating the transport to the funeral home. The remains will be taken to the Bilukpoh Kangin neighbourhood, Tegalcangkring Village, Mendoyo District, Jembrana.

“The Jembrana Regency Government will provide assistance, including providing a vehicle for the deceased’s family,” Mirah explained.