Indonesia Bans Workers from Cambodia, Myanmar Over Human Trafficking Fears

JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – The Indonesian government has officially prohibited its citizens from working in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Thailand, citing high risks of human trafficking and illegal employment.

The Ministry of Manpower and Transmigration emphasized that migrant workers currently in these countries are considered illegal, as no formal placement agreements exist.

Minister Abdul Kadir Karding issued a stern warning, stating that the ban is not merely an advisory but a strict policy.

“We are not just urging—we are forbidding all Indonesian citizens from working in these three countries due to the severe risks of human trafficking,” he declared during a press conference in Bekasi on March 28, 2025.

Authorities have identified Cambodia and Myanmar, particularly the Myawaddy region, as hotspots for online scams and illegal gambling operations. These areas have been linked to widespread exploitation of foreign workers, prompting Indonesia to take preventive measures.

In a recent operation, the government repatriated 554 Indonesian migrant workers who had fallen victim to human trafficking in Myawaddy. The rescue mission, conducted in two phases on March 18 and 19, involved transporting workers back via Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport.

The minister reiterated that Indonesia has no bilateral or multilateral labor agreements with Cambodia, Myanmar, or Thailand. As a result, any Indonesian workers found in these countries are deemed to have entered through unofficial and illegal channels.

The government has repeatedly warned citizens against accepting job offers in countries without formal labor placement procedures. Such offers often lead to exploitation, forced labor, or involvement in criminal activities.

To combat human trafficking, authorities are intensifying public awareness campaigns and urging citizens to verify job opportunities through official channels. The ministry also advised families to report suspicious recruitment schemes to law enforcement.

Indonesia continues to strengthen its efforts to protect migrant workers, ensuring their safety and rights are upheld. The recent ban underscores the government’s commitment to preventing further exploitation of its citizens abroad.(Uki Ruknuddin)