Protection of Seafarers: Indonesian Consulate General in Cape Town Holds Life Skills Seminar

INDUSTRY.co.id - Cape Town, South Africa - The Indonesian Consulate General in Cape Town organized a seminar to enhance the skills and understanding of Indonesian seafarers (ABK) regarding employment contracts and adaptation to the work environment, both on board and on land (life skills) at the Indonesian Seafarer Corner (ISC) on Sunday (10/12).

In his opening remarks, the Indonesian Consul General stated that the ISC was established as a manifestation of the country's protection for Indonesian seafarers in South Africa. It serves as a gathering place and a platform for improving skills in the current workplace or after returning to the homeland. He emphasized the importance of maintaining communication among fellow seafarers, especially with the Indonesian Consulate General.

Mr. Cassiem August, as the speaker, shared his experiences as a volunteer assisting in addressing issues faced by Indonesian seafarers in the past decade. In recognition of his contributions, Mr. Cassiem, who previously served as the Inspector of the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) in Cape Town, was awarded the Hassan Wirajuda Protection Award in 2016. This award is the highest recognition from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for tangible work in protecting Indonesian citizens abroad.

Protocol and Consular Affair of the Consulate, Faiez Maulana, explained to the seafarers about the mechanism for handling cases and complaints, starting from when a report is received, the approach, and the resolution process involving local and Indonesian stakeholders, as well as reporting. The reporting of seafarer cases is also facilitated through easily accessible means, such as the Care for Indonesian Citizens Portal (www.peduliwni.kemlu.go.id), the Consulate hotline at +27 720 711 6760, and the WhatsApp group for Indonesian sailors.

The life skill seminar is a routine event and a part of the strategy for handling issues faced by Indonesian citizens, consisting of three components carried out simultaneously: (1) preventive cases, (2) handling cases, and (3) socialization of laws and regulations related to the issue.

The inadequacy of international laws and regulations for the maximum protection of seafarers and the requirement for shipping companies to implement good governance standards for seafarers remain challenges. 

However, local authorities such as immigration and the police can compel companies engaged in serious violations, including criminal offences, to face immigration actions or investigations. Therefore, the Indonesian Consulate General in Cape Town continues to foster good relations with local authorities in efforts to protect seafarers.