Dumai: Routes from Indonesian regions bordering or located near Malaysia, such as Dumai, Bengkalis, and Selat Panjang in Riau, along with Batam, Bintan, and Karimun in the Riau Islands, have been identified as common paths used by syndicates to illegally smuggle Indonesian nationals into Malaysia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Johor Bahru reported that the methods used include entering Malaysia legally before working without a permit, using a third country like Thailand, and entering through back routes or other illegal channels. Social media recruitment scams have been identified, particularly involving job offers as domestic helpers and crew members. There have also been cases of exploitation of Indonesian migrant workers, such as non-payment of wages or mistreatment, and recruitment from remote areas with offers of high-paying jobs overseas.
The consulate noted the involvement of certain parties in facilitating the movement of undocumented Indonesian nationals without valid permits. Indonesian authorities have observed a shift towards online scams by syndicates, targeting even highly educated individuals with overseas job offers, including in information technology, promising high incomes.
Efforts have been made by the Indonesian National Police, Directorate General of Immigration, and relevant agencies to dismantle networks involved in the illegal recruitment and transportation of Indonesian migrant workers to Malaysia. The Indonesian government has tightened controls at its border entry points, postponing 8,287 departures and rejecting 9,394 high-risk passport applications between January and July this year, in efforts to curb illegal movements.
According to enforcement data up to mid-2025, the Indonesian National Police handled 609 cases of human trafficking, mostly linked to syndicates involved in the unlawful movement of Indonesian migrant workers. The consulate is actively monitoring information circulating on social media about alleged illegal sea routes from Indonesia to Malaysia and has reported such accounts to the authorities for further action.
KJRI Johor Bahru frequently receives complaints from Indonesians who entered and worked in Malaysia through illegal routes, with some seeking assistance after encountering problems. The assistance includes consular services, help in obtaining travel documents, and facilitating their return to Indonesia when necessary.
The consulate warns that using illegal routes exposes individuals to immigration law risks and increases the likelihood of falling victim to scams, exploitation, and human trafficking. While claims have been made that some Indonesians are willing to pay up to RM1,500 to enter Malaysia illegally, the consulate could not verify the amount. However, some Indonesians admitted to paying money to certain parties to enter Malaysia through illegal channels, driven by the desire to secure employment quickly and difficulties entering through regular channels.