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RIYADH (30 March 2022) - On the sidelines of attending the Global Entrepreneurship Congress (GEC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini greeted 20 representatives of Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI) at the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI), Riyadh.
During the meeting, the Minister had a dialogue with PMI representatives. She invited them to express their wishes and the problems they face. The Minister then gave some advice, including finding solutions to their problems and facilitating their return to providing basic services.
In general, the Minister expressed his appreciation since PMI is struggling to make a living abroad, while at the same time they are facing difficult situations.
“I understand that you all are here to provide for the family. And it's not easy because it is in another country, while the family is in the homeland. Keep up the good work because you are the foreign exchange heroes. Amid various challenges, rest assured that Allah will provide the best way,” said the Minister.
Based on the data from the Indonesian Embassy, there are 177 PMIs currently being accommodated at the Indonesian Embassy's Ruhama shelter in Riyadh. They were having various problems such as unpaid salaries, harassment, violence, etc.
The problems are complex. However, the most severe challenge is living separately from their loved ones at home. Therefore, the Minister offers an opportunity by facilitating PMIs who intend to return to Indonesia.
"For those who want to return to their homeland, the Ministry of Social Affairs is ready to facilitate the repatriation of PMIs from Saudi Arabia to Indonesia, except for PMIs who are still in trouble with the law," she said. At the same time as the Minister's visit, 34 PMIs will be repatriated at the expense of the Indonesian Embassy.
The PMIs will be picked up and given assistance by the Ministry of Social Affairs team under the direction of the Minister. They will also receive temporary basic services at Sentra Mulya Jaya. For PMIs with problems, the Ministry of Social Affairs will, among other things, pay fines for every PMI who does not have iqamah (temporary residence identity).
Furthermore, when their legal problems have been resolved, their return to their homeland will be facilitated. The team also assessed PMI's needs and capabilities, especially after going home. The Ministry of Social Affairs will assist them so they can live independently.
The team also sent a doctor/psychiatrist to assist in the repatriation of PMI who had problems with mental disorders.
