Nenah, Indonesian Migrant Worker from Majalengka, Faces Death Penalty in UAE; Family Appeals to President Prabowo

The family also questioned the evidence used in the case. Reportedly, the victim died by strangulation, but no fingerprints belonging to Nenah or her coworker were found on the victim’s body.

What obstacles have they faced in the legal process?

The legal process since 2014 has been prolonged. The court once offered a release option requiring Nenah to meet the victim’s family in India to apologize and have the charges dropped.

However, this condition is difficult to fulfill since Nenah remains imprisoned and has no access to the victim’s family.

“The court said, according to my sister, ‘You should meet the victim’s family and ask them to withdraw the charges.’ But my sister said, ‘How can I find them? I’m in prison and can’t go to India,’” Dede said.

This situation complicated efforts for Nenah’s release and lengthened her detention.

What is the latest development in the case?

The family recently learned that Nenah was sentenced to death based on the prosecution's claim in the local court.

The Indonesian government reportedly made some advocacy efforts and filed an appeal.

“The ministry from Jakarta once came here. They said the case would be processed. Nenah is still being worked on. She has been sentenced to death according to the prosecution’s demand in the local court. But the Indonesian side filed an appeal,” said Dede.

Nevertheless, the family hopes the assistance efforts will not stop and will be pursued until there is a legal resolution that favors justice.

Aside from facing the death penalty, Nenah’s health is said to be deteriorating.

In the last video call, Nenah shared that she has undergone three surgeries due to liver swelling and heart problems.

“My sister’s suffering is heartbreaking. We hope she can be freed and return home soon. It’s painful seeing her sick over there,” Dede said.

What are the family’s hopes from the government?

Nenah’s family implores that the Indonesian government, from local to central authorities, pay serious attention to this case.

They want tangible efforts in providing legal assistance and protection for Nenah as an Indonesian citizen.

Dede, on behalf of the family, voiced his appeal directly to several officials.

“I earnestly ask the regional government, the subdistrict head, the regent, the West Java Governor, and especially President Prabowo Subianto, please help to investigate this matter,” he said.

The family hopes for concrete actions that can open pathways to justice, including a possible release or at least a reduced sentence for Nenah.

Part of this article previously appeared on Kompas.com with the title "Nenah Faces Death Penalty in Dubai, Family in Majalengka Appeals for Government Assistance".