JAKARTA: Indonesian migrant workers sent 139 trillion rupiah (US$8.95 billion) in remittances last year, ranking as the second-largest contributor to the country’s foreign exchange after the oil and gas sector, Vice President Ma’ruf Amin said.
He highlighted the pivotal role of these workers, not only in reducing unemployment and boosting the economic standing of their home regions but also in playing a part in augmenting national revenue.
“The total number of Indonesian migrant workers has reached 4.8 million people from 2007 to the present,” he said at the International Migrants Day celebration, here, today.
Ma’ruf emphasised the unique position of migrant workers as ‘Foreign Exchange Heroes’, serving as ambassadors who promote positive aspects including culture, culinary offerings, and tourism potential.
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This preparation encompasses technical and linguistic proficiency, ensuring that these workers can effectively seize job opportunities abroad.
“They must have access to adequate services and protection from the Indonesian government, employers, and the governments of the destination countries, including access to public services, social protection, legal safeguards, and other fundamental workers’ rights,” Ma’ruf explained.
The celebration, organised by Badan Pelindungan Pekerja Migran Indonesia (BP2MI) and themed ‘Pekerja Migran Merdeka, Berdaya dan Sejahtera’ ('Independent, Empowered and Prosperous Migrant Workers'), is held at Tennis Indoor Senayan, Central Jakarta.
BP2MI, responsible for implementing policies related to the integrated service and protection of the country’s migrant workers, plays a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment for the workforce.
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