The South Sumatra Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) is pushing for the accelerated repatriation of migrant workers from South Sumatra before Eid al-Fitr

Palembang, The Indonesia Post – Deputy Chairman of Commission V of the South Sumatra Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD), David Hardianto Aljufri, highlighted the controversy surrounding the repatriation of 15 Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) from South Sumatra who are currently in Cambodia. The workers reportedly departed without following official procedures, requiring cross-agency coordination.

David revealed that, based on information received by the South Sumatra Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD), the migrant workers’ departure was illegal. Therefore, handling the matter requires the involvement of law enforcement officials and Indonesian diplomatic representatives in Cambodia.

“The information we received indicates they departed illegally. Therefore, the handling process must be coordinated with the police and the embassy,” David said on Wednesday (March 11, 2026).

The Golkar Party politician explained that the South Sumatra Provincial Government had taken initial steps to assist the repatriation process. These efforts were made under the direct direction of the South Sumatra Governor, who maintained intensive communication with the Indonesian Embassy in Cambodia.

“We’ve been in communication with the embassy there. We’re now just discussing the technical steps to ensure the repatriation process can be implemented quickly,” he said.

David emphasized that the South Sumatra Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) will continue to coordinate with the local government and relevant agencies to ensure progress in handling the case. One focus of discussion will be expediting repatriation so that migrant workers can return home as soon as possible.

He hopes the process will run smoothly so that the migrant workers from South Sumatra can return to Palembang before Eid al-Fitr.

“We certainly hope for positive developments. If possible, they can return to Palembang before Eid,” he stressed.

Furthermore, the South Sumatra Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) has urged the public to be more cautious about overseas job offers that do not go through official channels. This step is crucial to prevent similar cases from recurring in the future. (mhn/bbs)