The city administration’s plan to crack down on expatriates living in Jakarta without the appropriate documents has sparked mixed reactions from foreign nationals here.

Filipina singer Maribeth Pascua, famous for her song “Denpasar Moon”, said the plan was a good one.

“I agree. If their papers are illegal, (foreign nationals) have to be deported. I for one always follow the Immigration Office’s regulations,” said Maribeth, 37, who has lived in Indonesia for about 17 years.

Although professing to enjoying life in the country, she lamented that applying for Indonesian citizenship was a lengthy process.

She said immigration officials had suggested she work as a permanent employee of a company to gain citizenship.

Maribeth now works full-time as a lecturer in mass communications at the London School of Public Relations in Jakarta.

Fellow Filipino Birgilio Montinola said the planned inspections would be good in tracking down expatriates living here illegally, but warned the government must exercise caution in doing so.

“Many expats are here legitimately, with the intention of helping Indonesia develop its potential through their experience and knowledge, and willing to do this together with their Indonesian counterparts,” Birgilio said.

The city administration’s 10-day operation will cover Central Jakarta on Wednesday and Thursday, where there are reportedly 12,045 foreign nationals. The operation will target companies employing foreign nationals.

Mohammad Hatta, head of the Central Jakarta municipal population agency, said every foreign worker must hold a passport, visitor identity card (KIP) issued by the administration, a temporary stay permit (KITAS) issued by the immigration office, a working license (IKTA) from the manpower agency and a letter of reference (SMD) from the police.

Companies employing foreign nationals without the required papers can face stiff penalties, Hatta warned. Violators can face Rp 5 million (US$388) in fines or 3 months in jail. (fmb)

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