229 Indonesian Migrant Workers Facing Death Sentence: Minister

Jakarta (Antara) -- As many as 229 Indonesian migrant workers are facing the death sentence, Foreign Affairs Minister Retno L.P. Marsudi said. "Based on data, 229 migrant workers from Indonesia are facing the death sentence, mostly in Malaysia and Saudi Arabia," Marsudi affirmed here on Tuesday. According to the minister, the migrant workers were likely given the death penalty because they had committed drugs-related crimes and were involved in murder cases. President Joko Widodo emphasized that the government must assist these workers, she revealed. "We are committed to support the migrant workers through legal and consular assistance," she pointed out. Marsudi further noted that assistance from the state will be in the form of legal aid and diplomatic efforts. "The state will provide legal aid and consular assistance," she assured. Moreover, Justice and Human Rights Minister Yasonna Laoly stated that the government will provide assistance to citizens who are facing the death penalty through the Indonesian embassies in those countries. "We will provide complete assistance to get a lawyer, and conduct diplomatic efforts in those countries," he added. (*)