TRENGGALEK – Authorities have begun tracking Trenggalek residents in the Middle East as geopolitical tensions in the region continue to rise. The local government launched the initiative to monitor the safety and status of its citizens living or traveling there.
The Trenggalek Regency Government started collecting data on residents who currently stay in several Middle Eastern countries. Officials say the move aims to anticipate possible risks if the regional security situation worsens.
Trenggalek Regent Mochamad Nur Arifin, widely known as Mas Ipin, said he has instructed government agencies to trace the whereabouts of local residents across the region.
“We must confirm whether they are there for work, study, or religious purposes. There may also be students from Trenggalek in countries like Iran,” he said.
Authorities say the data collection process will help the government understand the condition and legal status of each resident abroad. The effort covers migrant workers, students, and pilgrims who may currently stay in the region.
Mas Ipin noted that major religious destinations such as Mecca and Medina remain relatively safe for worship activities. However, wider regional tensions could still disrupt international travel and transportation.
He said flight disruptions could occur even if religious activities continue normally.
“I personally experienced a flight cancellation during my return from Umrah due to security concerns. The airline issued a refund,” he said.
To speed up the data collection process, the Trenggalek government has opened a public reporting hotline. Officials encourage families who have relatives in the Middle East to share information.
Residents can report details through the hotline number 082 233 343 800. They are asked to provide basic information, including the person’s name, passport number, and current location abroad.
“We encourage residents to contact the hotline. We will help coordinate further steps with the relevant authorities,” Mas Ipin said.
The local government has also strengthened coordination with the Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection Agency and the Trenggalek National Unity and Politics Agency. These institutions continue monitoring developments in the region and reviewing official travel advisories from the central government.
Preliminary data suggests that around 100 to 150 Trenggalek residents currently stay in various Middle Eastern countries. Officials continue verifying their identities and current activities.
Authorities have already identified one resident from Watulimo District who works at a resort in the Jumeirah area.
Local officials say they will continue monitoring the situation while ensuring that Trenggalek residents abroad receive assistance if conditions change.