The Indonesian government has issued a regulation banning the foreign pilots from working for more than 2 years in the local airlines. This ban is imposed as an intention to force them to hire local unemployed pilots. The regulation became effective from 23rd September this year. The exceptions are made for the foreigner pilots with special skills such as instructors or helicopter pilots and pilots performing their duties in the remote areas.
A recent raid conducted by authorities resulted in netting at least 447 foreigners accused of violating the country's visa/immigration rules. Ronny Sompie the Immigration Office Director General said the biggest group arrested of violating the policy during raid were chinese nationals. Most of the tourists were arrested because of overstaying while some were unable to provide their passports or residence permit. The accused to face proper legal action and sanctions which can range from fines, deportation to criminal prosecution.