The facility was inaugurated on Thursday and is aimed at improving services for Indonesian migrant workers traveling abroad.
Minister of Migrant Worker Protection Mukhtarudin said the lounge is the result of collaboration among key public service stakeholders, including airport authorities and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, the national social security agency.
“This reflects our joint commitment to better serve migrant workers,” Mukhtarudin said in a statement.
He added that the initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to involve multiple sectors in improving services for overseas workers.
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In addition to serving as a rest area, the lounge functions as an information and education center. It provides guidance for prospective migrant workers on how to work abroad legally and safely.
“Here, they will receive education on how to become safe, documented migrant workers,” the minister said.
The lounge aims to help prevent cases of fraud and illegal recruitment by offering clear information on proper procedures, required documents, and workers' rights.
Officials hope the space will become a reliable support hub, especially for first-time workers who may lack access to official guidance.
Mukhtarudin emphasized that enhancing protection and access to information at key transit points like airports is part of a broader effort to improve the welfare and safety of migrant workers.
The opening of the lounge is part of KP2MI’s larger strategy to build a comprehensive, integrated service system for Indonesian migrant workers, both before departure and after return.
The new lounge is expected to serve thousands of migrant workers who transit through Surabaya annually on their way to jobs abroad.
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Translator: Katriana
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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