16 Fishermen From Riau Islands Freed By Malaysian Government

The Riau Islands fishermen's release process is carried out in the waters of Tanjung Pengrang, Malaysia, (ANTARA/Jessica)

A total of 16 fishermen from the Riau Islands (Kepri) were released by the Malaysian Government, through the Malaysian Maritime Strengthening Agency (APMM).

Head of the West Zone Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla), First Admiral Bambang Trijanto said the fishermen released came from Bintan, Lingga, and Anambas.

"We have signed the handover of 16 Indonesian fishermen who were secured by APMM two months ago. This is a form of friendly cooperation between Indonesia and Malaysia," said Bambang as quoted by ANTARA, Thursday, July 11.

He explained that the release was carried out in the waters of Tanjung Pengrang, Malaysia and was led by the Head of Bakamla West Zone with APMM.

Bambang said the 16 fishermen, 13 of whom came from Bintan Regency and Lingga Regency. While the other three are from Anambas Regency.

"A total of 13 fishermen from Bintan and Lingga were arrested by APMM for making arrests in Indonesian waters. Meanwhile, three other fishermen were rescued by APMM because their ship suffered engine failure," he said.

Head of the Riau Islands Provincial Border Management Agency, Doli Boniara, said that Malaysia's reason for not confiscating the boats and releasing the fishermen was due to considerations and the closeness of the Malay culture between Indonesia and Malaysia which resulted in a free decision against the 13 fishermen.

"Alhamdulillah, including two ships (KM Surya Indah 10 and KM Bintang Jaya 9) were also released," he said.

The release of 13 Indonesian fishermen was carried out after undergoing legal proceedings in Malaysia.

"The 13 fishermen, consisting of 10 men and 3 women, received special consideration from the Judges of the High City (Trial) Sesyen Court in Malaysia, considering their old age," said Doli.