UNAIR NEWS – Amid globalization, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) remains committed to expanding its community service outreach. One embodiment of this commitment is the International Community Service (KKN) program in Malaysia, held from April 29 to May 4, 2024, involving Indonesian immigrants.

Dr. Sri Endah Kinasih, SSos, MSi, a mentor for the KKN program and a lecturer in the Department of Anthropology at UNAIR Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, explained that immigrants are a marginalized group vulnerable to discrimination. They often face challenges in accessing basic services such as education, healthcare, and fair wages, and they tend to live in poverty and deprivation. Therefore, this year’s International KKN in Malaysia, particularly in Johor Bahru, aims to empower immigrants through its programs.

“Typically, KKN only reaches out to local residents. This time, we’re trying to engage Indonesian immigrants living in Malaysia. Therefore, not only do local communities benefit, but also those who are immigrants in a foreign land. However, we must remember to respect the ‘host country’ regulations,” Endah explained.

The UNAIR International KKN program in Malaysia serves as an effective platform to optimize the potential of marginalized Indonesian immigrants. By involving immigrants in the KKN program, they can acquire new skills, enhance their knowledge, and build networks to remain resilient in their environment.

Immigrant advocacy

Endah has spearheaded an advocacy program for immigrant mine workers who endure low wages, long working hours, and a high risk of exploitation. Unfortunately, there is no adequate legal framework to protect the rights of these immigrant workers. Even the recruitment companies, which should be vocal, have taken little action.

Additionally, one of the key initiatives in this year’s International KKN is training immigrant workers in the production of traditional herbal medicine in their housing complex. Endah mentioned that this program has received a positive response from the residents. The training is beneficial for personal use and creates new business opportunities for the immigrants.

However, several challenges with the International KKN in Malaysia are inevitable. The program’s relatively short duration is a significant obstacle, hindering the development of strong emotional bonds between the immigrants and KKN participants.

Closing the interview, Endah, the program’s initiator, hoped that the International KKN could continue to evolve, particularly in providing broader impacts for marginalized communities in various countries.

Author: FISIP UNAIR

Editor: Feri Fenoria

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