MAKASSAR, RAKYAT NEWS – The Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub), in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has successfully facilitated the return of the body of Muhammad Dzul Iqbal, an Indonesian crew member who passed away in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia, to his hometown in Makassar, South Sulawesi.

According to the Embalm Certificate issued by Pohnpei State Hospital, Iqbal died on July 22, 2024, due to a spinal cord injury and a skull fracture.

Director of Shipping and Seafarers Hendri Ginting reported that the body was flown from Manila on August 21, 2024, arriving at Soekarno-Hatta Airport on the same day. It was then transported to Makassar via Lion Air on August 22.

Kemenhub’s Directorate General of Sea Transportation will continue to assist the family in securing the seafarer’s entitlements as stipulated in his maritime work agreement. The agency has reminded the manning agency to ensure all of Iqbal’s rights are honored.

This effort underscores the Indonesian government’s commitment to protecting and advocating for the rights of Indonesian seafarers working on international vessels.

The handover of entitlements will take place at the Ministry of Transportation headquarters, where representatives of the family will be present.

Ginting, along with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the manning agency, extended their deepest condolences to Iqbal’s family, expressing hopes for their strength during this difficult time.

The return of the body was supported by a seafarers’ association and the manning agency. (Uki Ruknuddin)

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