8-12-2023 (JAKARTA) Indonesian President Joko Widodo expressed strong suspicions on Friday (December 8) that human trafficking is the primary cause behind the recent surge in Rohingya arrivals in Indonesia, pledging cooperation with international organizations to address the issue.
In a live-streamed video, Joko stated, “Strongly suspecting the involvement of human trafficking networks… Indonesia will take decisive action against them,” without providing further details.
According to the United Nations Refugee Agency in Indonesia, over 1,200 Rohingya have landed in Indonesia since November of last year, raising concerns in local communities about the scale of this year’s exodus. Most Rohingya embark on perilous journeys by boat, fleeing Myanmar with hopes of reaching neighboring countries such as Thailand and Bangladesh, or even farther destinations like Malaysia and Indonesia.
Indonesia has long been a haven for Rohingya refugees, but the recent influx has triggered negative sentiments on social media and increased resistance from the people of Aceh province. Aceh is the primary landing point for the majority of Rohingya arrivals. Joko mentioned that Indonesia will continue providing temporary humanitarian assistance to the Rohingya but will prioritize local residents.
Local media reported that on Thursday (December 7), residents staged a demonstration near a Rohingya shelter in Sabang, Aceh, demanding their relocation to other areas.
