The Ministry's Director of Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Samsuddin, conveyed the state's presence to ensuring the protection and fulfillment of the rights of Indonesian seafarers facing emergency situations while working abroad.
"The government remains committed to protect the Indonesian seafarers, including in emergency situations resulting from conflict or security disturbances in international shipping areas," he remarked in a statement on Tuesday.
The two crew members arrived in Indonesia via Terminal 3 International Arrivals at Soekarno-Hatta Airport on Wednesday (July 22).
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They were welcomed by the Directorate of Shipping and Maritime Affairs representatives, along with PT Utama Bahari Indonesia Director Nur Suwanto, whose company holds a Ship Crew Agency Business License (SIUKAK).
Samsuddin expressed his appreciation to all parties involved in the repatriation effort, including the ship crew agency, the vessel owner, local authorities, the Directorate for the Protection of Indonesian Citizens at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and government representatives who took part in the process.
MT Belma tanker was sailing through the Strait of Hormuz towards Kharg Island Anchorage on July 15, 2026. During the voyage, the ship experienced two missile attacks, which hit the funnel and caused some damage.
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The damage left the vessel without engine power, causing it to drift toward shore. The captain decided to drop anchor the following day.
While the ship was still anchored on July 17, it experienced another missile attack on the funnel. The captain immediately instructed the entire crew to gather at the bow and await evacuation.
At approximately 6:00 p.m. local time, the entire crew was successfully evacuated by a rescue ship to Kharg Island, Iran, for further treatment.
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Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Fransiska Ninditya
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