Repatriation of remains of 11 Indonesians killed in boat capsize began on Thursday (Dec 23)

JOHOR BAHRU: The repatriation of the remains of Indonesians who drowned when a boat capsized off Tanjung Balau, Kota Tinggi on Dec 15 began on Thursday (Dec 23).

The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia here said in a statement that the repatriation process involved 11 bodies and was done using the Indonesian Marine Police patrol boat KP Laksamana 7012.

"The handover process was carried out at the Johor Port here to the International Humanitarian Mission Task Force, comprising the Foreign Ministry, the Indonesian police force and the Indonesian Migrant Workers Protection Agency (BP2MI),” said the Consulate General.

It expressed its appreciation to all quarters for the assistance rendered in ensuring the smooth repatriation process.

"We would like to convey our condolences to the families of victims killed in the boat capsize. Hopefully, the families are given the strength and courage to face the ordeal,” said the Consulate General.

At the same time, the Consulate General also advised Indonesians who are working abroad to follow safe procedures and not to be influenced by quarters that could endanger their safety.

In the incident on Dec 15, a boat believed to be carrying about 50 illegal immigrants capsized in the waters of Tanjung Balau at about 4.30 am.

The number of victims drowned in the boat capsize remains at 21 people, with 13 rescued and more than 16 still feared missing. - Bernama