Government Raises Concern over Plight of Indonesian Fishing Crew

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi has conveyed her concerns over the deaths of four Indonesian crewmen aboard two Chinese trawlers last May and June.

“[Foreign Minister Retno] urged a thorough investigation [of the fishermen’s deaths] to China’s Ambassador to Indonesia [Xiao Qian],” said Indonesian Foreign Ministry Director for Citizens Protection Judha Nugraha in a virtual conference on August 13.

“She also called for those responsible to be tried in a court of law.”

Judha added that the Indonesian government is still awaiting the results of the Chinese authorities’ investigation into the deaths of the men, who were identified as B, AS, R and AW.

 Also read: Six Arrested for Recruitment of 22 Indonesian Crewmen Onboard Chinese Vessels

“[The Foreign Ministry] is also working to ensure the crewmen’s rights. It is to this end that we are coordinating with the labor companies sending the men and other related institutions to pay the men’s salaries, deposits and compensation to their families,” Judha added.

The step comes as the Destructive Fishing Watch (DFW) and other nongovernmental organizations urged the government to carry out inspections and other checks on foreign fishing vessels to protect Indonesians working there.

“The Indonesian government has yet to monitor or inspect the well-being of Indonesian nationals working on fishing trawlers in Indonesian or foreign waters,” said DFW Indonesia National Coordinator Moh. Abdi Suhufan in a written statement on August 12.

“Indonesian crews on foreign ships are at risk from human trafficking, exploitation, deceitful recruiting practices, low pay and overtime, as well as appalling work conditions.”

DOK HUMAS POLRES KARIMUN Indonesian authorities board the Chinese fishing vessels Lu Huang Yuan Yu 117 and Lu Huang Yuan Yu 118

Also read: Indonesia Chases 2 Chinese Flag-Bearing Boats, Finds Dead Body in a Freezer