Batam, Indonesia – For many foreigners, Indonesia is a land of opportunity. But not all journeys go as planned. Behind every immigration policy and regulation, there are human stories—some filled with struggle, confusion, and mental anguish.
The Class I Special Immigration Office (TPI) in Batam once again demonstrated its commitment to upholding immigration law by deporting four foreign nationals in June 2025. The individuals included two Chinese nationals, one Indian national, and one Canadian citizen—all found to be in violation of their stay permits in Indonesia.
Among the cases, one stood out with a deeper humanitarian note. A Canadian man, identified by his initials DJM, was reported to have disrupted public order in the Batam Center area. It was later discovered that DJM was suffering from mental illness. Instead of immediate deportation, immigration authorities arranged for him to be treated at Engku Haji Daud Psychiatric Hospital in Bintan. Once his condition stabilized, he was respectfully deported back to his country of origin.
“We don’t just enforce the law—we also consider the human aspect,” said Jefrico Daud Marturia, Head of Intelligence and Immigration Enforcement in Batam.
In addition to DJM, two Chinese nationals were deported. One of them, FW, had overstayed his visa by more than 60 days and was deported on June 13, 2025. Another, CS, had been under surveillance by immigration authorities after failing to respond to official warnings to update his immigration data. He was deported on June 17, 2025.
A 70-day overstay also led to the deportation of JS, an Indian citizen, who was removed from Indonesian territory via Hang Nadim International Airport in Batam, followed by a connecting flight through Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.
All four individuals were additionally placed on a re-entry ban (blacklist), preventing them from returning to Indonesia for a specified period in accordance with immigration regulations.
“This is not just about punishment—it’s about maintaining order and sovereignty,” Jefrico emphasized. “We urge all foreign nationals who may have overstayed their permits to report themselves voluntarily to our office. Doing so shows good faith and may help them avoid stricter enforcement measures.”
The immigration office also calls on local communities to take an active role in monitoring suspicious activities by foreign nationals. Reports can be submitted through the official Batam Immigration complaint channel at +62 821-8088-9090.(Elin)
