Indonesian Labor Ministry Takes Strong Stance Against Illegal Foreign Workers

Crackdown in West Kalimantan Industrial Zone

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower conducted a surprise inspection at the Ketapang Industrial Estate in West Kalimantan on November 11, 2025. The operation uncovered 364 foreign nationals working illegally across two companies: PT SZCI with 202 workers and PT BAP with 162 workers. This enforcement action follows a fatal workplace accident involving a Chinese national, Wang Abao, who was working without proper documentation.

Regulatory Violations and Administrative Actions

The inspection revealed that both companies failed to obtain the required Rencana Penggunaan Tenaga Kerja Asing (RPTKA), a mandatory document for employing foreign workers. The Ministry has confirmed that administrative sanctions will be imposed on the violating companies as per Ministerial Regulation No. 8/2021. The regulation mandates that employers must secure RPTKA approval from the central government before hiring foreign workers.

Enforcement Challenges and Government Response

During the inspection, the enforcement team faced resistance from the industrial estate management, who initially refused to comply with the instruction to remove the illegal workers within 3×24 hours. However, the Ministry maintained its professional stance and ensured that the process would continue according to regulatory procedures. The Director General of Labor Supervision, Ismail Pakaya, stated that the inspection would continue until November 14, 2025, to ensure full compliance.

Implications for Corporate Compliance

This enforcement action sends a strong message to companies operating in Indonesia about the importance of complying with foreign worker regulations. The Ministry has emphasized that while providing maximum service to tenants is important, it should not come at the expense of violating labor regulations. Companies are required to adhere strictly to the legal requirements for employing foreign workers, including obtaining the necessary permits and documentation.