Kupang (ANTARA) - The Atambua Immigration Office in Belu, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), reported a surge in travelers leaving Indonesia for Timor-Leste and vice versa at three integrated cross-border posts (PLBN) across the province ahead of Eid al-Fitr festivity.
Speaking to ANTARA in a phone interview from here on Sunday, Atambua Immigration Office Head Putu Agus Eka Putra said the number of travelers departing from Indonesia via the Mota Ain PLBN stood at 393 on March 24 but jumped to 774 on Saturday (March 29).
The registered travelers consisted of Indonesian citizens and other nationals, he said.
Putra then elaborated on the data of inbound travelers, noting that 419 residents, comprising Indonesians and foreigners, entered NTT on March 24, with the number soaring to 1,230 on Saturday.
The immigration office also recorded a similar trend at Wini PLBN and Motamasin PLBN, with the former facilitating the entry of 100 people on March 24, followed by 124 travelers on March 29.
Meanwhile, the Motamasin PLBN served a total of 119 people crossing the border into Indonesia on Saturday.
"Our officers have been working hard in the field. Despite facing high pressure, they have demonstrated extraordinary dedication. This is an evidence of our improving and responsive services," he said.
In addition, the Immigration Office of Atambua has been treating its employees to the best extent by providing them with proper work facilities, applying an efficient operational mechanism, and prioritizing their welfare.
"Our officers stand at the forefront in ensuring that cross-border travel flows smoothly. For this reason, we are committed to fully supporting our officers to provide the public with the top-notch services in a comfortable work environment," he added.
