KUALA LUMPUR: Indonesian authorities have arrested 16 Malaysians for abusing social visas in Palembang, South Sumatra.
The Foreign Ministry confirmed the Malaysians were detained on Jan 9.
“The Malaysian Consulate General in Medan held a consular visit three times on Jan 16, 21, and Feb 14 to ensure the welfare of detainees and their basic needs are protected as well as having access to medical facilities.
“Following that, Foreign Minister, Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah sent a letter to his colleague, Retno L.P. Marsudi on Feb 18 requesting the Indonesian government's cooperation to focus on the welfare and health issues of detainees as well as speed up the legal process for those involved,” it said in a statement on Friday (Feb 22).
It added that the Malaysian Consulate General in Medan would hold another consular visit in the near future to hold discussions with the prosecutor and the Palembang Court to facilitate and speed up the legal process.
“The Foreign Ministry is constantly striving to ensure that the welfare of Malaysians detained abroad is always given priority.
“Malaysians are reminded to comply with the immigration regulations of the country they are visiting and apply for a visa in accordance with the purpose of the visit,” said the Ministry.
The Ministry added that the Malaysian government respects Indonesian laws and would not intervene in their legal affairs.
“We appreciate all the cooperation given by the government of Indonesia in facilitating the consular affairs of all detainees,”it said.- Star
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