West Java Provincial Government Guarantees Employment for 13 Victims of Human Trafficking from West Java

Bandung (ANTARA) - The Governor of West Java, Dedi Mulyadi, stated that his administration will not stop at mere ceremonies in handling the case of 13 West Java residents who were victims of human trafficking in Maumere, East Nusa Tenggara, but will ensure that they receive job guarantees.

The West Java Provincial Government, according to Dedi, is currently preparing a special skills training scheme so that the victims have economic independence and do not fall back into the vicious cycle of exploitation by illegal networks.

“They will be given guidance first, then prepared for work. Hopefully, they will be comfortable with their jobs,” said Dedi at the Gedung Sate Bandung, Thursday.

Dedi explained that the old pattern of simply sending the victims back to their hometowns without any economic resources actually creates an opportunity for illegal recruiters to act again.

Therefore, the West Java Provincial Government will direct the victims towards the formal industrial sector.

“For example, they can become tailors, shoemakers in the industry, or domestic assistants. Hopefully, they will be happy with their jobs,” he said.

Currently, 12 of the victims who have arrived in Bandung are undergoing physical and psychological recovery at the Temporary Shelter of the UPTD PPA West Java. After undergoing health checks, the victims will be temporarily returned to their families to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

“Now, they will probably return to their parents after the health checks. After Eid, they will participate in training,” said Dedi.

Furthermore, Dedi reminded law enforcement officials to remain focused on pursuing criminal charges against the perpetrators of human trafficking.

He emphasized that the issue of debts, which was claimed by the entertainment venue in Maumere, should not obscure the substance of the humanitarian crime that occurred.

“In my opinion, it is best for them to immediately get back to work,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of economic rehabilitation.

The West Java Provincial Government, added Dedi, is currently coordinating with the heads of the respective regions where the victims come from to ensure that after the training is completed, these survivors will be immediately absorbed into the labor market or partner industries of the regional government.