"I welcome the commitment of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to ensure protection for Indonesian migrant workers (in Malaysia)," Jokowi stated after receiving the prime minister's visit to Bogor Palace here, Monday.
The president also expressed optimism that the one-channel system for the recruitment and placement of migrant workers could be implemented properly.
"I also highlighted my request regarding importance of the development of community learning centres in Peninsular Malaysia to ensure the right of education of Indonesian migrant workers' children is fulfilled," he stated.
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Meanwhile, the prime minister expressed his keenness to address issues that had strained bilateral relations between Indonesia and Malaysia, particularly on issues of migrant workers.
"I am keen to realize the special relations between Malaysia and Indonesia, and I hope our foreign ministers understood our commitment. Particularly, the migrant workers issues, which moved the heart of the Indonesian people, not only the government," he stated.
Anwar said he understood the difficulties experienced by Indonesian migrant workers when they are incarcerated, as he had experienced living behind bars for years.
"I understand them because I also experienced (living behind bars). While at the same prison, I heard that they are affected by whipping, and I believe it is inhumane. Praise be to God, in 2022, the whipping had ended," the prime minister stated.
Meanwhile, Anwar also pushed for greater efforts to protect the rights of Indonesian migrant workers, including by ensuring labor supplier companies work properly and responsibly.
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Translator: Rangga Pandu AJ, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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