East Java Residents Working Abroad Reach 43 Thousand. BP2MI Head: No Human Trafficking!

The Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection (BP2MI) now knowing as The Ministry of Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection (KP2MI) recorded a decline in the number of Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) working overseas as of June 2024. However, East Java (Jatim) remains the province with the highest number, reaching 43,487 people from January to June 2024.

BP2MI Head Benny Rhamdani continues to emphasize the importance of preventing human trafficking (TPPO) in the placement process of PMI. He asserted that the government is committed to providing education and protection for prospective workers so they do not fall victim to illegal placement syndicates.

Benny also highlighted the crucial role of PMI as Indonesia’s second-largest foreign exchange contributor. Therefore, the government provides various facilities and special services for them — including dedicated waiting areas at airports and safe, official placement processes.

BP2MI actively conducts public outreach to prevent TPPO and illegal placements, including to local art and cultural communities across the country. Benny hopes that Indonesians seeking jobs abroad will use official government channels to avoid the risk of becoming victims of trafficking.