Batam – There’s promising news for migrant workers and aspiring overseas workers in Batam. On May 18, 2025, the groundbreaking ceremony took place for the construction of a Vocational Training Center (BLK) and a Migrant Information Center, situated at the St. Theresia Shelter in Batam. This commendable initiative is a collaborative effort between Caritas Indonesia and the KPP-PMP Commission of the Pangkalpinang Diocese, demonstrating a tangible commitment to addressing the issues faced by migrant workers and victims of Trafficking in Persons (TPPO).

This integrated BLK and information center, located within the St. Theresia Migrant Shelter, is envisioned as a safe and comfortable haven for migrant workers. Bishop Aloysius Sudarso SCJ, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Yayasan Karina KWI, expressed his hope that this facility will become a central point where every migrant worker can find acceptance and feel like part of a family. He also emphasized that this initiative reflects the Catholic Church’s concern for migration issues, aligning with Pope Francis’ consistent message about the importance of providing care and protection to migrant workers.

Father Fredy Rante Taruk, Pr, Director of Caritas Indonesia, explained that the BLK and information center will offer crucial services, including a migrant information hub and skills training for migrant workers. This step is considered vital given that many Indonesian migrant workers still lack adequate skills and information before embarking on work abroad. Furthermore, the center will serve as a platform for education, outreach, and networking related to migrant worker issues.

Father Chrisanctus Paschalis Saturnus, Chairman of the KPP-PMP Commission of the Pangkalpinang Diocese, affirmed that the BLK and information center are open to all migrant workers. He highlighted the prevalent problem of limited competence and information among prospective migrant workers, which tragically often makes them vulnerable to becoming victims of TPPO. With the establishment of this BLK and information center, it is hoped that migrant workers will gain sufficient information before deciding to work overseas.

The establishment of the BLK and Migrant Information Center at the St. Theresia Shelter underscores the unwavering commitment of Caritas Indonesia and the KPP-PMP Commission of the Pangkalpinang Diocese to serve and advocate for migrant workers and TPPO victims. This initiative is particularly pertinent given Batam’s position as a primary transit point for human trafficking.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by various key figures, including the Deputy Chief of the Riau Islands Regional Police, the Head of the Kepri Regional Intelligence Agency, representatives from numerous religious congregations, Bank Indonesia, the Safe Migrant Network Batam, and parish representatives, signifying broad support for this noble endeavor.