Govt calls migrant workers "heroes of foreign exchange"

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) has lauded the strategic role of migrant workers as "foreign exchange fighters" who significantly contribute to the national economy.

"I call these migrant workers foreign exchange fighters because they are still fighting for their lives," P2MI Minister Mukhtarudin said during the commemoration of National Heroes Day in Jakarta on Monday.

He stressed that migrant workers deserve to be called fighters not only because of their perseverance for themselves and their families but also for their contribution to national growth through foreign exchange earnings.

"The contribution of migrant workers as a driver of foreign exchange will remain a key pillar of national progress," he affirmed.

Mukhtarudin expressed hope that returning migrant workers would develop themselves into independent and successful entrepreneurs.

During the event, P2MI also launched the Financial Education Pocketbook, part of efforts to improve financial literacy among migrant workers so they can manage their income wisely while working abroad.

"This book serves as a guide for Indonesian migrant workers to manage their finances more wisely," Mukhtarudin added.