"The task force has been very helpful in the handling of Indonesian migrant workers (TKI) who face various cases abroad. It has taken approaches and done high level lobbying that could not be carried out by the existing institution. So, the extension of its term of service, which is to expire in July, is quite helpful," Jumhur Hidayat, chairman of the Indonesian Agency for Placement and Protection of Indonesian Workers Overseas (BNP2TKI) said.
He added that the task force, which was set up by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to handle TKIs who were facing death sentence, has the special ability to penetrate high level agencies overseas.
"It has a specific task and the President expresses his seriousness through the mandate given to the task force. Other countries also appreciate it," Jumhur said.
Meanwhile, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has extended the term of service of the task force, which will expire next July.
The extension of the task force`s term was regulated through a presidential decision signed by Yudhoyono on February 24, 2012, according to the Website of the Cabinet Secretariat here on Wednesday.
As per the website, the task force will have another six months to operate beginning from July 7, 2012 when its current term will expire.
The task force provides legal aid and legal counseling to Indonesian workers overseas who are facing the death sentence.
President Yudhoyono also assigned the task force to arrange Operational Standard Procedures (SOP) on the handling of cases of TKIs who are facing the death penalty in foreign countries.
It also has the task of producing recommendations on the placement and protection of Indonesian workers abroad, and provides effective and educative information on the handling of TKIs facing death row overseas.
The President, in his decision, has entrusted former religious affairs minister Maftuh Basyuni to continue to chair the task force.
(Uu.A014/INE/H-YH)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
Copyright © ANTARA 2012
