Ninety-six Indonesian nationals have returned to Jakarta from Saudi Arabia, arriving on a Saudi Arabian Airlines flight at 9 a.m. local time on Friday, January 16. The repatriation was facilitated by Indonesia’s Foreign Ministry and its Consulate General in Jeddah.
Details of the Repatriation
The group consisted of 95 individuals who had been held at Mecca’s immigration detention center – 11 males and 84 females – along with one Indonesian national requiring medical care due to paralysis. The Foreign Ministry stated the repatriation was achieved through intensive collaboration between the Consulate General and its protection and services team.
Consular services were provided, and coordination with Saudi authorities was undertaken to secure the return of these individuals. The Foreign Ministry also issued “travel document in lieu of passport” (SPLP) documents to facilitate travel. Upon arrival in Jakarta, the Directorate for the Protection of Indonesians is coordinating with the Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, as well as customs and immigration officials, to continue the repatriation process.
Government Commitment to Citizen Protection
The Foreign Ministry affirmed the Indonesian government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad, offering support to those facing difficulties or deportation. Foreign Minister Sugiono has stated that protecting Indonesians is a central tenet of the nation’s diplomacy, aligning with the Indonesian Constitution’s mandate to protect all its people.
Related reporting indicates ongoing discussions regarding worker placements in the Middle East and arrangements for financial security for Indonesian workers in Saudi Arabia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the composition of the group repatriated on January 16?
The group consisted of 95 individuals from Mecca’s immigration detention center – 11 males and 84 females – and one individual requiring medical care due to paralysis, totaling 96 people.
What role did the Indonesian Consulate General play in this repatriation?
The Consulate General in Jeddah worked with the Foreign Ministry’s protection and services team to provide consular services and coordinate with Saudi authorities to facilitate the repatriation of the Indonesian nationals.
What happened after the Indonesians arrived in Jakarta?
Upon arrival, the Directorate for the Protection of Indonesians is coordinating with the Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, and customs and immigration authorities to continue the repatriation process.
As the Indonesian government continues to prioritize the protection of its citizens abroad, it remains to be seen what additional measures may be implemented to prevent future detentions and ensure the safety of Indonesian workers in Saudi Arabia.
