"The issue of protecting Indonesian citizens abroad is something that is absolute in Indonesia’s diplomacy and is one of the priorities contained in the Asta Cita," Sugiono remarked during the 2025 Foreign Minister Annual Press Statement here on Friday.
He emphasized that all Indonesian citizens should feel supported and protected by their home country, regardless of their location.
Sugiono acknowledged President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to this cause, highlighting his proactive measures even before taking office, such as concrete efforts to save Indonesian citizens from death penalties abroad.
Sugiono also commended the contributions of Indonesian migrant workers worldwide.
"We are grateful to our fellow migrant workers, who, despite facing various challenges, continue to work hard for their families back home," he affirmed.
Furthermore, the minister highlighted Indonesia's commitment to developing proactive protection policies, moving beyond simply responding to issues after they occur.
He noted that those policies are aimed at addressing various transnational crimes, such as online fraud.
"We will also work together with relevant ministries to build a more comprehensive protection system," he stated.
In addition, he underscored the importance of the Indonesian diaspora, which numbers around eight million, and described it as a "strategic asset for the nation."
"President Prabowo’s government invites you, the diaspora, to work together to build our nation according to your capacities in various fields," he remarked.
He also emphasized that now is the time to transform Indonesia's brain drain into a brain gain.
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Translator: Katriana, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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