Indonesian Fishermen Facing Jail Terms in Malaysia

Langkat, North Sumatra (Antara) - Ten Indonesian fishermen from the regency of Langkat of North Sumatra, are facing jail terms from three to six months on charge of poaching in Malaysian waters. The fishermen are now in detention in Pulau Penang, chairman of the Indonesian association of traditional fishermen Tajruddin Hasibuan said in Stabat, Jum'at. "They have been held in detention as they are not provided with legal defense," Hasibuan said. Tajruddin said the Indonesian government could save the fishermen and set them free before going to court based on an agreement between the two countries on sea law enforcement signed on Jan. 27 in 2012. He said it was not the first Indonesian traditional fishermen caught and arrested when they operated on the border areas. He accused the government of lack of concern and seriousness in guarding the country's sea border and protect traditional fishermen operating in the border area. He said the association of traditional fishermen called on the Indonesian authorities and the House of Representatives to seek the return of the fishermen . Six fishermen from Langkat were detained with their boat since Sept 22 by patrolling Malaysian maritime police after three days in the sea off Langkat regency. Almost at the same time four other fishermen from the village of Kelantan, Brandan Barat, were arrested by the Malaysia police. They are all detained in a police detention in Pulau Penang, Tajruddin Hasibuan said. (*)