The Indonesian government has expressed deep concern over the shooting of five Indonesian nationals by Malaysian authorities near Tanjung Rhu, Selangor, on January 24, 2025. According to Judha Nugraha, Director of Citizen Protection at Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the incident involved a confrontation with the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM), where the migrants allegedly threatened officers with machetes.
The altercation reportedly began when the migrants’ boat collided with an APMM patrol vessel multiple times. APMM personnel responded with gunfire, leaving one Indonesian, identified as “B” from Riau Province, dead and four others severely injured. The injured individuals have since received medical care.
Judha stated that the Indonesian Embassy in Malaysia has sent a diplomatic note to the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging a thorough investigation into the incident and requesting consular access to the injured nationals. Additionally, embassy officials plan to meet the migrants to gather firsthand accounts.
While Malaysian authorities claim the migrants posed a threat, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs awaits confirmation on whether machetes were seized as evidence. Details about the APMM personnel involved in the shooting remain under investigation by Malaysian police.
This incident has sparked outrage in Indonesia, with the House of Representatives (DPR) demanding transparency from Malaysia and emphasizing the need for accountability. The Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has also strongly condemned the use of force, calling for justice for the victims.
The Indonesian government has vowed to continue advocating for its citizens’ rights and safety abroad, reinforcing its commitment to addressing such incidents through diplomatic channels.