US–Israel–Iran conflict: Government urged to ensure the safety of Indonesian migrant workers in the Middle East
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.COM – Member of the House of Representatives Commission IX, Netty Prasetiyani, has urged the government to ensure the safety and security of Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) employed in the Middle East region. The call comes amid escalating clashes involving the United States (US) and Israel with Iran in recent times.
“The state must respond swiftly to potential threats against its citizens abroad. Given the sizeable concentration of PMIs in this region, emergency measures must be discussed immediately,” Netty said in a written statement on Thursday, 5 March 2026.
She added that PMIs working abroad are foreign exchange heroes for the country and deserve priority protection. “The safety of our foreign exchange heroes is an absolute priority. In a dynamic conflict situation like this, protection policies must move faster than the crisis developments themselves,” Netty asserted.
Additionally, Indonesian representatives in the Middle East need to update PMI data to ensure the process of repatriation later. “The government should also mature evacuation scenarios, prepare safe gathering points (safe houses), and readiness of transport fleets if mass repatriation is needed immediately,” she said.
“Ensure responsive communication channels for PMIs and their families in Indonesia to obtain up-to-date information and report emergencies. Also ensure the availability of basic logistics and access to medical services for PMIs in conflict zones,” she continued.
“We are preparing a variety of scenarios, including evacuation and placement tightening. All steps are based on factual information, diplomatic coordination, and prudence principles,” said Minister of P2MI, Mukhtarudin, in a press conference received by Kompas.com on Tuesday, 3 February 2026.
Consequently, the Directorate General of Protection of the Ministry of P2MI has formed a Crisis Monitoring Geopolitical Team. High-risk zones are continually being mapped so that the government can make fast and accurate decisions.
As a precaution, PMIs are urged to avoid conflict zones, military bases, and high-risk locations. If necessary, they are advised to move to safer areas.
The government is also intensively coordinating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Indonesian Representatives in several Middle Eastern countries, such as Tehran, Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, to harmonise data and prepare emergency plans.