Filipino seafarers in Malaysia released, repatriation readied —DMW

The Department of Migrant Workers said on Friday that the eight Filipino seafarers that were detained in Malaysia over alleged violation of Immigration laws have been released. 

The eight crew members of MT Krishna 1 were detained in a police station in Kota Tinggi, Malaysia.

“Following yesterday’s welfare visit and today’s decision of the Prosecutor’s Office in Johor, the eight  Filipino crew members of vessel MT Krishna 1 detained in Kota Tinggi have been released today, 18 April 2025,” the DMW said in a statement on Friday afternoon. 

The DMW along with the Migrant Workers Office and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration in Kuala Lumpur are now preparing for the immediate repatriation of the Filipino seafarers back to the Philippines. 

The DMW also reached out to the families of the seafarers and assured them of their safety. 

The eight Filipino seafarers, along with 12 Indian crew members, were detained by Royal Malaysian Police at Kota Tinggi Police District Headquarters in Johor , Malaysia last April 11th for entering Malaysia without passports and valid documents.

“Upon learning of the arrest, MWO-OWWA Malaysia immediately coordinated with Kota Tinggi police authorities to ensure the welfare and well-being of the seafarers, and communicated with the concerned Licensed Manning Agency (LMA) and principal for their cooperation during the police investigation,” the DMW said. “The LMA, meanwhile, of the 8 Filipino seafarers assured the continued payment of salaries and benefits to the seafarers and their families.” 

The Filipino seafarers will be provided with necessary assistance through the AKSYON Fund, a comprehensive support system to overseas Filipino workers which includes financial aid, legal assistance, medical assistance, among others.—LDF, GMA Integrated News