BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Indonesia reaffirmed its leadership in combating human smuggling in the ASEAN region through active participation at The 28th ASEAN Directors-General of Immigration Departments and Heads of Consular Affairs Divisions of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs (DGICM) and related meetings held at Rizqun International Hotel, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam.
Acting Director General of Immigration, Yuldi Yusman, led the Indonesian delegation consisting of representatives from the Directorate General of Immigration, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Indonesian Embassy in Bandar Seri Begawan. The forum was attended by heads of immigration from all ASEAN member states, Timor Leste, and the ASEAN Secretariat.
During the session, Indonesia highlighted its success in uncovering human smuggling routes through effective collaboration between national and international law enforcement agencies. This achievement was recognized as a best practice expected to be replicated by other member states.
The forum also emphasized the importance of strengthening security at major Immigration Checkpoints (ICPs). Indonesia presented a strategic transformation model by utilizing advanced technologies such as autogates and artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate inspection processes while enhancing border surveillance. Proposed areas of cooperation include Border Crossing Agreements, joint maritime operations, and integrated training programs for immigration officers.
A key initiative that drew attention was Indonesia’s Immigration Village Program. Introduced as a preemptive measure, the program aims to educate local communities while preventing human smuggling and trafficking in persons. The initiative was positively received for combining technological innovation with community empowerment.
The opening day of DGICM 2025 underscored the shared commitment of ASEAN member states and Timor Leste to strengthen cross-border cooperation, combat human smuggling, and improve regional security.
“DGICM serves as a strategic forum to build synergy among nations in securing borders, preventing transnational crimes, and enhancing the quality of immigration services,” said Yuldi Yusman.
Concluding his remarks, Yuldi stressed the importance of closer regional cooperation.
“Indonesia encourages stronger collaboration within the region, whether through information sharing, capacity building, or the adoption of advanced technologies. We believe that with solid cooperation, ASEAN can become safer and more resilient in addressing immigration challenges,” he affirmed.***
