Minister Urges Legal Probe into Fatal Shooting of Indonesian Worker
The Indonesian government has urged Malaysia to ensure full transparency in the legal process following the fatal shooting of an Indonesian migrant worker by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Agensi Penguatkuasaan Maritim Malaysia – APMM) in Tanjung Rhu waters on January 24, 2025.
The incident, which occurred at approximately 3:00 AM WIB, involved five Indonesian migrant workers (PMI). One worker was killed, another sustained critical injuries, while three others were wounded. The shooting has sparked concern within the Indonesian government, prompting a demand for a comprehensive investigation and legal accountability.
Minister Calls for Legal Transparency and Support for Victims
Indonesia’s Minister for Migrant Worker Protection (P2MI), Abdul Kadir Karding, has called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) to push for a transparent investigation into the case. He emphasized the importance of openness in the legal process to ensure justice is served.
“We urge Kemlu to ensure that Malaysian law enforcement operates transparently, making the process clear and accountable,” Karding stated during a visit to Malaysia on January 27, 2025.
Diplomatic and Legal Coordination in Progress
Karding confirmed that coordination efforts with Indonesian diplomatic representatives in Malaysia are already underway. This includes discussions with the Indonesian embassy and police attaché to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
In addition to seeking justice, Karding has also been working with local authorities to arrange the repatriation of the victim’s body and to provide medical assistance to the injured survivors.
“We are coordinating with all relevant parties, ensuring that we can support the handling of the victim’s remains and assist those who are hospitalized,” he said.
Victim’s Families Seek Answers and Government Support
The Indonesian government has also begun direct communication with the families of the victims to mitigate potential repercussions and provide necessary assistance.
“This is about protecting and safeguarding our Indonesian migrant workers,” Karding emphasized.
The fatal shooting of the Indonesian migrants has raised serious concerns, as the Malaysian maritime authorities reportedly opened fire without due process. The case has heightened tensions over the treatment of Indonesian workers abroad, with calls for a reassessment of labor protection measures in Malaysia.
This high-profile case may impact diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Malaysia, two nations with strong economic and labor ties. It could also affect regional migrant policies and prompt new protective measures for Indonesian workers abroad.
This incident underscores ongoing concerns over the treatment of foreign laborers in Southeast Asia. It also raises broader questions about maritime security policies, particularly in disputed and high-risk waters.
Sources: Batam Pos, Jawa Pos (2025)
Keywords: Indonesia Malaysia Relations, Migrant Worker Shooting, Diplomatic Investigation, APMM Shooting, Human Rights, Maritime Security, Southeast Asia Labor, Indonesian Migrant Protection, Worker Rights, Legal Transparency
