The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has successfully negotiated the release and repatriation of an Indonesian migrant worker facing the death penalty in Saudi Arabia. On September 11, 2024, the Indonesian government handed over the individual, known as SBB, to their family in Jember, East Java.
SBB was initially accused of murder and faced a death sentence from the Riyadh court in Saudi Arabia. The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided detailed information about the case, revealing that the ministry first received news of SBB’s situation in September 2023. In response, the Indonesian Embassy in Riyadh quickly mobilized an advocacy team, including diplomats, lawyers, and translators, to handle the case.
The advocacy team undertook a comprehensive effort over eleven months, participating in 23 court hearings, conducting 11 prison visits, and communicating with SBB’s family on 10 occasions. They also made two visits to SBB’s family home in Jember and engaged in three diplomatic correspondences. This thorough approach was aimed at collecting evidence, preparing defense notes, and assisting throughout the legal proceedings.
On March 24, 2024, the First Court Judge acquitted SBB of the death penalty. This verdict was upheld by the Court of Appeal on May 7, 2024. SBB was ultimately found guilty of inconsistent statements and sentenced to a year in prison.
Following the conclusion of the legal process, the Indonesian Embassy in Riyadh coordinated with the Immigration Office to arrange SBB’s repatriation. On September 8, 2024, SBB was brought back to Indonesia, and the official handover to the family took place on September 11.
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that SBB had entered Saudi Arabia illegally in 2022 with a visit visa arranged by a broker, and was employed as a household administrator. The successful resolution of this case highlights the Indonesian government’s commitment to supporting its citizens abroad and ensuring their rights are protected.