"We ensure that the services are ready to welcome and manage Indonesian migrant workers returning before and after Eid," he said in a press release here on Saturday.
Minister Karding reviewed various facilities, including a lounge specifically for migrant workers, to assess SHIA Airport's preparedness for the influx of returning home migrant workers.
He stated that his office has implemented additional shifts to optimize services and ensure that migrant workers are well served at the airport.
"We have three shifts of service from five days before Eid to 10 days after Eid to anticipate this," Karding stated.
As of early March 2025, some 2,837 Indonesian migrant workers had returned to their homeland, mostly from Saudi Arabia, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam.
Of the total migrant workers returning, 80 percent were identified as undocumented or illegal.
"However, since they are Indonesian citizens, we serve them all and ensure they get home," he remarked.
Minister Karding also took the time to interact with several Indonesian migrant workers employed in Malaysia and Japan.
He posed numerous questions to caregivers for the elderly to gain insight into the level of protection and compensation they receive.
"Sorry, it feels like I am being a reporter," he joked, eliciting laughter from the migrant workers in a special lounge.
Minister Karding urged prospective overseas workers to follow legal pathways to prevent risks such as exploitation, sexual violence, and organized crime.
Translator: Katriana, Kenzu
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
