Minister Karding Reveals Human Trafficking Practice Targets Migrant Workers To Take Advantage Of WhatsApp Groups

JAKARTA - Minister of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) Abdul Kadir Karding revealed the facts about the rampant practice of human trafficking targeting prospective Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) using the WhatsApp (WAG) group.

According to Karding, the conversation group that was originally used to socialize has now changed its function to a trap tool for residents who want to work abroad quickly but unofficially.

WhatsApp Group is now not just a place to talk, but has become a tool for illegal recruitment. Many PMI candidates are framed through messages that promise quick work abroad, complete with fake passports that have been prepared," Karding said in the ANTARA Podcast, Wednesday, April 16, confiscated by Antara

He said more than 90 percent of Indonesian migrant workers who were victims of violence, fraud, or even loss of life, came from non-procedural channels. Many recruiters disguise themselves as former successful Indonesian migrant workers or trusted agents, even though they are part of an international human trafficking network.

"What is even more terrible is that many of these PMI candidates have finally become accomplices to syndicates. They help recruit friends, neighbors, and even their own families," he said.

To ward off this practice, the government is intensifying digital patrols and strengthening cooperation with law enforcement officials to track suspicious recruitment activities in cyberspace.

The transformation of the Indonesian Migrant Workers Protection Agency (BP2MI) into the Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KemenP2MI) is also referred to as a strategic step in the era of President Prabowo to strengthen governance and supervision.

"This change is not only an institutional matter, but to ensure comprehensive protection for citizens who work abroad. Moreover, PMI's contribution to the economy is very large through the foreign exchange they send," said Karding.

He also emphasized that currently legal channels are much easier and faster, and provide comprehensive protection for migrant workers. The government also cooperates with vocational schools and expands cooperation with destination countries such as Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Taiwan.

"We want to change the mindset of the community that the legal route is complicated. Now it is safer and promises the future. Indonesian migrant workers are officially respected, get a decent salary, and go home with experience and income that can build a family economy," he said.

In the midst of the increasing lure of fast work through online messages, Karding appealed to the public to be aware of suspicious offers, especially those coming from WhatsApp groups.

"If there is a job offer that sounds too beautiful to come true, it's probably not a reality. It's better if the process is official but safe," he said.