Page 56 - Inzist Special Edition

REPATRIATION

IN THE MIDST OF PANDEMIC

In 2020, in a world marred by deadly new corona virus, many countries in the world were racing against
the pace of the virus approaching their borders. Those was uncertain time to many countries, as well to
people. In the midst of high human interaction through transportation across borders, COVID-19 brought
the interaction into halt.

Consequently, millions of people were stranded overseas due to the lockdown, safety measures or
restrictions that were in place. On 14 March 2020 immediately after Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern
announced the lockdown, I led Indonesian Embassy in Wellington and take necessary actions.Immediately
on the same day, series of information was sent to Indonesian citizen in many areas in New Zealand based
on updates from New Zealand Government in respond to local COVID-19.

The actions were vital in securing the safety of Indonesian nationals. Phone calls, video calls, short
messages through Whatsapp and through various channels were taken to ensure the safety and welfare of
Indonesian nationals.

Despite the challenges to make outside physical activity, since early 2020, the Indonesian Embassy in
Wellington had facilitated 119 repatriations for Indonesian workers and tourists who were stranded or in
limbo of border restriction during the pandemic. In addition, assistance in the form of daily necessities and
logistical support were also given to Indonesian citizens who became financially stricken because of the
COVID-19 pandemic.

Coordination and communication with Indonesian nationals in need of Embassy’s assistance largely
facilitated by peduliwni.kemlu.go.id, a website on protection of Indonesian nationals and active hotline
phone number for all Indonesian national. Particularly in 2021, the Embassy also provide text messaging
service to update Indonesian national on COVID-19 situation.

These efforts were beyond the call of duty and mostly outside normal working hours. But I am proud to
serve in the best possible way for my nationals abroad.

Seafarers happily waited for repatriation flight home