Indonesian Citizen Dies from Pneumonia in Hong Kong, Here are 8 Photos of Uya Kuya Returning His Body to Indonesia

"Okie collapsed at Hong Kong Airport, then was taken to the hospital and declared dead due to pneumonia," said Astrid Kuya, who accompanied her husband during the process.

The family of the deceased admitted to being confused in facing this situation. They then contacted Miss Yuni, an activist defending migrant workers in Hong Kong and a friend of Uya Kuya. With coordination from Miss Yuni, migrant workers from various countries also gathered donations for the repatriation costs of the body. "The cost of returning from Hong Kong to Jakarta amounts to 102 million rupiah, not including administrative fees at cargo and the departure to Sukoharjo, where the family of the deceased resides," added Astrid.  

Astrid also explained that the family of the deceased, including his wife and child, actually planned to come to Jakarta. However, they had an accident while processing related documents, so they could not attend.  

This is not the first time Uya and Astrid have helped repatriate the bodies of Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI) who died abroad. A month earlier, they were also involved in the repatriation of a PMI's body from Taiwan who died due to illness. This couple has been actively assisting PMIs for years, whether they are sick, paralyzed, in a coma, or experiencing mental health issues. "We often repatriate PMIs who encounter problems abroad. In fact, I myself have lost count of how many we have helped," said Astrid.

In addition to repatriating bodies, Uya and Astrid have also helped advocate for dozens of PMIs who fell victim to "love scammer" fraud in Hong Kong and Taiwan. The case was successfully uncovered, and the perpetrator was arrested by the East Java Police.  

As a member of the DPR who focuses on the protection of PMIs, Uya often provides advice to people who intend to work abroad. He emphasizes the importance of using official channels and having adequate skills to be protected by the state. "Safe migration is important. Working abroad must go through official channels and require skills through recognized training institutions. This way, the state can play a greater role in protecting PMIs when problems arise," said Uya.  

In addition, Uya revealed that he receives dozens of complaints from Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI) every day through his personal Instagram account. Despite having a busy schedule, he still tries to respond to all incoming complaints. "As much as possible, I reply one by one," he said briefly.  

Through consistent efforts, Uya and Astrid hope that PMIs can feel more protected while working abroad. Their dedication not only helps ease the burden on the families left behind but also serves as an inspiration to care more about the fate of Indonesian migrant workers. "Our hope is that PMIs can work safely, without fear of mistreatment or difficulties when problems arise," Uya concluded.