Deportation is part of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day events, with full travel costs covered.
The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru has facilitated the repatriation of 77 Indonesian nationals from Malaysia to Batam, underscoring the importance of legal migration procedures amid tighter Malaysian immigration policies.
Coordinated Deportation Effort
On August 9, 2025, the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Johor Bahru, in cooperation with Malaysia’s Depot Tahanan Imigresen (DTI) Machap Umboo in Melaka, repatriated 77 Indonesians, including migrant workers (PMI). The group comprised 35 men, 34 women, and two young girls, with six classified as vulnerable individuals.
Full Cost Covered by KJRI
As part of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day commemorations, KJRI Johor Bahru covered the ferry tickets and seaport tax for all deportees. The repatriation was supervised by the Consulate’s Service and Protection Task Force, using the sea route from Stulang Laut Port in Johor Bahru to Batam Centre Port.
Arrival and Further Processing in Batam
Upon arrival in Batam, the group was handed over to the Batam Migrant Worker Service and Protection Post (P4MI) for further arrangements to return them to their hometowns across Indonesia. The process involved coordination with BP3MI Kepulauan Riau, Batam Port Health Office, and various local manpower agencies.
Multiple Repatriation Waves Planned
Consular Affairs Officer Jati Heri Winarto announced that August will see three repatriation waves from three different detention centers, each involving about 80 Indonesians. He highlighted Malaysia’s increasingly strict immigration and foreign labor regulations as a reminder for Indonesians to always follow official channels when seeking work abroad.
Emphasis on Legal Migration Procedures
Jati urged prospective workers to prioritize legal recruitment and placement processes to avoid immigration issues and potential detention. He expressed appreciation to Malaysian and Indonesian authorities who contributed to the smooth execution of the repatriation.
The repatriation reflects Indonesia’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad and ensuring their safe return, while reinforcing the message that legal migration pathways are essential for safeguarding rights and avoiding the risks associated with irregular employment. For Indonesians working in or traveling to Malaysia, the case serves as both a relief effort and a cautionary reminder.
Sources: BeritaSatu.com (2025) , Terasbatam.id (2025)
Keywords: KJRI Johor Bahru, Indonesian Migrant Workers, Repatriation, Batam, Malaysia Immigration, PMI Protection
