Komnas HAM: Shooting of Indonesian Citizens in Malaysia Not the First

Tragedy Strikes Again: Indonesian Migrant Workers Shot by malaysian Authorities

The shooting of five Indonesian citizens by Malaysian authorities in Tanjung Rhu,Selangor,on January 24,2025,has sent shockwaves through both nations. One migrant worker tragically lost his life, a victim from Riau province, while four others sustained injuries. This heartbreaking incident, according to Anis Hidayah, the Human Rights Advancement Subcommission Coordinator at Komnas HAM, Indonesia’s National human Rights Commission, is unluckily not an isolated event.

“In previous years, similar incidents have also occured in Malaysia,” Hidayah stated, highlighting the urgent need for Malaysian authorities to ensure fair law enforcement and the protection of Indonesian citizens’ rights. Komnas HAM has expressed profound regret over the incident, emphasizing the essential and inviolable right to life. “The government has an obligation to ensure that this right is fulfilled,” Hidayah stressed.

While Malaysian authorities maintain that the Indonesian citizens attacked their patrol ship,wielding machetes,indonesian Embassy officials in Kuala Lumpur are demanding further details. Senior Commissioner Juliarman Eka Putra Pasaribu, the Indonesian Embassy’s Police Attaché in Malaysia, contradicts the Malaysian narrative, asserting, “Ther was no resistance from the ship carrying the Indonesian citizens.”

In response to this tragedy, Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a diplomatic note to Malaysia, urging a thorough examination into the incident, with particular attention paid to the possible excessive use of force. Judha Nugraha, Director of Protection of Indonesian Citizens at the ministry, assured the public, “The Ministry of foreign Affairs and the Indonesian Embassy are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure justice for the victims.”

Tragedy Strikes Again: Indonesian Migrant Workers Shot by Malaysian Authorities – An Inside Look

The recent shooting of five Indonesian migrant workers in Tanjung Rhu, Selangor, sent shockwaves through the Indonesian community and beyond. This tragic incident,which occurred on January 27,2025,leaves behind a trail of grief and raises critical questions about the safety and rights of migrant workers in Malaysia.

Anya Nadhira, Executive Director of Migrant Care, an Indonesian NGO, sheds light on this disturbing trend. “this tragic incident is sadly not an isolated case,” Nadhira states. “Our association has documented 75 cases of shootings involving Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia between 2005 and 2025. This recurring pattern demonstrates a deeply concerning lack of protection for these vulnerable individuals.”

Malaysian authorities assert that the workers attacked their patrol ship, wielding machetes. However, Indonesia maintains there was no resistance. “The conflicting accounts only underscore the need for a thorough and clear examination,” Nadhira emphasizes. “We urge Malaysian authorities to critically examine their own actions and ensure all evidence is meticulously scrutinized. It’s critical to understand the full context of the incident and hold those accountable for any wrongdoing, nonetheless of who is involved.”

This incident highlights a systemic challenge that demands immediate attention. Nadhira underscores the urgency for action, stating: “Only through concrete actions and a genuine commitment to protecting migrant workers’ rights can Malaysia ensure a safer and more humane surroundings for Indonesian citizens seeking opportunities within its borders.”

The Indonesian government has been actively engaging with Malaysian authorities to seek justice for its citizens. President Prabowo Subianto directly addressed the issue during a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on January 27, 2025. “I remind you not to get involved in illegal activities,” he stated, underscoring the importance of upholding the law while ensuring the safety of Indonesian workers.

What Steps Can Malaysia Take?

The Malaysian government has a responsibility to thoroughly investigate this incident,ensuring transparency and accountability.This must include:

• Independant and Impartial Investigation: A transparent and independent investigation is crucial to determine the facts surrounding the incident. This investigation should be conducted by a body with no vested interests and should include access to all evidence, including witness testimonies, forensic reports, and official records.
• Protection of witnesses: Witnesses should be guaranteed protection from intimidation or reprisal. Their safety and well-being are paramount to ensuring a fair and impartial investigation.
• Legal Action Against Perpetrators: If the investigation reveals wrongdoing by Malaysian authorities, appropriate legal action should be taken against those responsible. This sends a clear message that violence against migrant workers will not be tolerated.
• Review of Security Procedures: Malaysia should review its security procedures for engaging with migrant workers,ensuring that thay are proportionate,lawful,and prioritize de-escalation and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
• Strengthening Migrant Worker Protections: Malaysia needs to address systemic issues that contribute to the vulnerability of migrant workers. This includes ensuring fair labor practices, access to justice, and adequate protection against exploitation and abuse.

The shooting of the five Indonesian migrant workers is a tragic reminder of the systemic challenges facing migrant workers in malaysia. it is imperative that the Malaysian government takes concrete steps to address these issues,ensure justice for the victims,and create a safer and more humane environment for all migrant workers.

The Fight for Dignity: Protecting Indonesian Migrant Workers in Malaysia

The journey of Indonesian migrant workers to Malaysia is frequently enough fraught with challenges, and their vulnerability has tragically manifested in cases of violence and exploitation. Anya Nadhira, an expert on migrant worker rights, sheds light on the complex factors contributing to this issue.

“There’s a complex interplay of factors at play,” Nadhira explains. “Stringent immigration laws create a climate of fear and vulnerability, coupled with lax enforcement against human rights abuses by employers and sometimes even law enforcement. This results in migrant workers frequently feeling trapped and voiceless.”

This dire situation begs the question: what concrete actions can Malaysia take to protect these vulnerable individuals and ensure justice prevails? Nadhira outlines several key steps.

First, Malaysia must acknowledge the reality of these issues and demonstrate a genuine commitment to change. this means implementing comprehensive labor reforms that guarantee fair wages, decent working conditions, and access to legal recourse for migrant workers.

Second, investing in robust mechanisms for accountability is crucial. This includes independent investigations into allegations of abuse and ensuring that perpetrators face legal consequences.fostering a more inclusive society where migrant workers are treated with respect and dignity is paramount.

“Remember, you are not alone,” Nadhira urges those affected by these events. “Despite the challenges, there are organizations like Migrant Care dedicated to fighting for your rights and safety. Don’t be afraid to reach out for support, and together, we can work towards a future where all migrant workers are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.”

Nadhira’s words serve as a powerful call to action, urging Malaysia and the international community to address the systemic issues that contribute to the exploitation of migrant workers. It’s a call for justice,for safety,and for a future where all individuals,nonetheless of their origin,are treated with respect and dignity.

Given this tragedy, what concrete actions can Indonesian NGOs and the Indonesian government take too better protect their citizens working in Malaysia?

Tragedy Strikes Again: Indonesian Migrant Workers shot by Malaysian Authorities – An Inside Look

An Interview with Anya Nadhira, Executive Director of Migrant Care

The recent shooting of five Indonesian migrant workers in Tanjung Rhu, Selangor, sent shockwaves through the Indonesian community and beyond. This tragic incident, which occurred on January 27, 2025, leaves behind a trail of grief and raises critical questions about the safety and rights of migrant workers in Malaysia. Anya Nadhira, Executive director of Migrant Care, an Indonesian NGO, sheds light on this disturbing trend.

Archyde: Ms. Nadhira, this latest incident is deeply tragic. Can you tell us more about the broader context of migrant worker safety in Malaysia?

Anya Nadhira: This tragic incident is sadly not an isolated case. Our association has documented 75 cases of shootings involving Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia between 2005 and 2025.This recurring pattern demonstrates a deeply concerning lack of protection for these vulnerable individuals.

Archyde: What do you think are the root causes of these recurring violent incidents?

anya Nadhira: There’s a complex interplay of factors at play.Stringent immigration laws create a climate of fear and vulnerability, coupled with lax enforcement against human rights abuses by employers and sometimes even law enforcement. this results in migrant workers frequently feeling trapped and voiceless.

Archyde: Malaysian authorities assert that the workers attacked their patrol ship, wielding machetes. However,Indonesia maintains there was no resistance.How do you reconcile these conflicting accounts?

Anya Nadhira: the conflicting accounts only underscore the need for a thorough and clear examination. We urge Malaysian authorities to critically examine their own actions and ensure all evidence is meticulously scrutinized. It’s critical to understand the full context of the incident and hold those accountable for any wrongdoing, nonetheless of who is involved.

Archyde: What concrete steps can Malaysia take to ensure the safety and protect the rights of Indonesian migrant workers?

Anya Nadhira: Firstly, Malaysia must acknowledge the reality of these issues and demonstrate a genuine commitment to change. This means implementing complete labor reforms that guarantee fair wages, decent working conditions, and access to legal recourse for migrant workers. Secondly, investing in robust mechanisms for accountability is crucial. This includes independent investigations into allegations of abuse and ensuring that perpetrators face legal consequences. fostering a more inclusive society where migrant workers are treated with respect and dignity is paramount.

Archyde: What message would you like to send to Indonesian migrant workers in Malaysia?

Anya Nadhira: Remember, you are not alone. Despite the challenges,there are organizations like Migrant Care dedicated to fighting for your rights and safety. Don’t be afraid to reach out for support, and together, we can work towards a future where all migrant workers are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

This tragedy highlights a systemic challenge that demands immediate attention.