KUCHING, July 6: Sarawakians are strongly advised against entering neighbouring Kalimantan illegally through “jalan tikus” (cross border trails) or risked being detained by the Indonesian authorities.
SUPP Public Complaints Bureau (SUPP PCB) chief Wilfred Yap said Sarawakians must comply with the immigration regulations of Indonesia and use their passports to enter the country.
The people must also apply for a visa (where required) in accordance to the purpose of their visit, he added.
Yap made this reminder after a Sarawakian woman was arrested by Indonesian authorities when she entered West Kalimantan through Serikin, Bau, using “jalan tikus” without a valid passport.
“The woman’s plight was made known to SUPP PCB in April, after her elder brother approached us, saying that her sister had been detained in Indonesia since January this year.
“SUPP PCB communicated and had written to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the Malaysian Consulate General in Pontianak to request for their assistance and ensure her welfare, basic needs and medical needs are taken care of.
“This is also to speed up the legal process,” he said in a statement.
He added that following intervention and assistance of authorities concerned, the woman has been released by Indonesia and was deported back to Kuching.
“SUPP PCB thanked the Malaysian Consulate General in Pontianak for their efficiency and professionalism in the handling of the matter.
“We hope the public will be more careful in their decisions and to be law abiding,” Yap said.
He added that the bureau was always ready to lend a helping hand and anyone requiring assistance can contact SUPP PCB at 016-7797688 or 082-246999, or go direct to SUPP head office to request for assistance. — DayakDaily
