Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — In the first half of 2024, the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh reported managing nearly 1,300 cases involving Indonesian nationals facing issues in Cambodia, with more than 75 percent related to employment in online scam operations.
Indonesian Ambassador to Cambodia, Santo Darmosumarto, voiced concerns over this troubling trend, emphasizing that many Indonesians unknowingly engage in fraudulent activities, believing they are performing legitimate work.
Ambassador Santo highlighted that Cambodia is not an official destination for Indonesian migrant workers. He explained that nearly all Indonesians working in Cambodia are “non-procedural” migrants, meaning they bypass Indonesia’s approved labor migration channels. “Following the official process ensures protections, rights, and support for migrant workers,” he noted, stressing the lack of security faced by Indonesians who take unregulated paths.
This lack of procedural status presents various risks. Unregistered workers are often unknown to the Indonesian government, making it challenging for embassies to offer assistance if issues arise. Additionally, these workers are more vulnerable to exploitative practices, as there is no government-verified employment contract to protect them. Santo further noted that workers frequently encounter conditions that differ drastically from what was promised and often lack social or health insurance, leaving them unprotected if they face illness or injury.
“Many cases involve Indonesians abandoned by employers when they fall sick or need assistance,” Santo added.
Cambodia’s online scam industry, targeting unsuspecting individuals globally, draws many of these non-procedural workers. These companies often lure Indonesian nationals into roles that they believe to be legitimate, only to discover that they are participating in fraudulent activities. This not only puts workers at risk of exploitation but could also expose them to potential legal consequences.
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Ambassador Santo advised Indonesians considering work in Cambodia to adhere to official employment channels to ensure safety and legality. “Going through proper channels helps secure jobs with full protections and support,” he said, also enables embassies to track and assist nationals in case of emergencies.
The Indonesian government strongly encourages prospective overseas workers to go through official channels to mitigate risks abroad, with the Phnom Penh embassy continuing to stress this, particularly in high-risk sectors like Cambodia’s online scam industry. Santo underscored the importance of awareness, urging Indonesians to consult with designated agencies before seeking work abroad. This, he noted, would ensure safer paths and allow the government to extend support when needed.
(Becky)
