Indonesia’s incoming ambassador to Malaysia, R.M. Iman Hascarya Kusumo, has confirmed that protecting the welfare of Indonesian migrant workers will be a top priority during his tenure. Appointed by President Prabowo Subianto on October 8, Kusumo emphasized that the existing framework for migrant worker protection is in place but can be strengthened further to ensure safety and well-being.
Speaking to Radio Republik Indonesia, Kusumo explained that his plan involves improving coordination between Indonesian and Malaysian agencies responsible for managing migrant labor. This cooperation aims to ensure that migrant workers receive proper guidance and support even before leaving Indonesia for employment in Malaysia.
“The framework is already there, but it can be strengthened,” Kusumo said. He highlighted that better collaboration between government agencies in both countries is key to safeguarding workers’ welfare. This includes ensuring that migrant workers have access to accurate information, protection mechanisms, and support services throughout their journey.
Kusumo also stressed the importance of health protections for migrant workers. He plans to coordinate pre-departure medical checks and ensure that workers are medically fit before they travel. “Health protection is critical. We need to make sure our workers are physically and mentally prepared for their work abroad,” he said.
In addition to medical and safety support, Kusumo intends to strengthen the overall management of migration processes. This includes ensuring fair recruitment practices, guiding workers’ rights, and improving communication channels between Indonesian authorities and employers in Malaysia.
The incoming ambassador’s approach reflects a growing focus by the Indonesian government on the rights and welfare of its overseas workers. With thousands of Indonesians working in Malaysia across sectors such as domestic work, construction, and plantations, ensuring proper safeguards is crucial to prevent exploitation, abuse, and unsafe working conditions.
Kusumo, a non-career diplomat, previously served as deputy treasurer of the Prabowo-Gibran National Campaign Team during the 2024 presidential election. His appointment is expected to bring fresh energy to bilateral cooperation on migrant labor issues, particularly in health protection, legal assistance, and safe recruitment initiatives.
Officials from both countries have welcomed the ambassador’s commitment, noting that stronger coordination will benefit not only the workers but also employers and governments by promoting transparent, safe, and efficient labor migration. The initiative aligns with broader efforts by Indonesia to modernize its migration governance, reduce reliance on informal recruitment channels, and ensure that workers abroad are treated with dignity and respect.
Kusumo’s plans are part of Indonesia’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that migrant workers can pursue opportunities abroad safely, with robust protections from departure to return, and to strengthen Indonesia-Malaysia relations through collaborative labor management policies.