Indonesians in Malaysia provided protection, says Indonesian Consul-General

The Consulate-General of Indonesia here is is always concerned about the problems faced by its people, especially those who work as maids.

"Among the protection and aid provided is temporary shelter for those who face problems with their employers," said its Consul-General, Taufiq Rodhy.

Taufiq said until now, they had provided assistance and temporary shelter for 40 female workers who faced various problems with their employers and hiring agencies.

"Some of the women who work as maids face issues such as not being paid, abuse from their employers and feeling uncomfortable at work...so we provide them temporary shelter," he told reporters after attending the commemoration of Indonesia's 71st Independence Day, here, today.

Taufiq said there were some 80,000 Indonesian nationals working in the manufacturing and construction sectors, and as domestic maids and helpers at eateries in the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia. Today's ceremony which was held in the compound of Wisma Indonesia in Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman from 8.18 am, was attended by 750 Indonesians staying in Penang.

It began with the hoisting of the red-white Indonesian flag, followed by the singing of the national anthem.

It was enlivened by the serving of a one-metre high 'nasi tumpeng' dish, a symbolic gesture in marking the republic's Independence Day. It was prepared by the Indonesian Women's Association in Penang.

Taufiq said the rice dish was among the delicacies usually served to commemorate an event, adding that it was shaped like a mountain to reflect its nature of providing protection to the community and strengthening ties.