We write as a group of Australian citizens and community workers who are deeply concerned for the welfare of 246 asylum seekers on board the boat at Merak’s shores in Indonesia. 

They have been there for 11 weeks now, without access to medical supplies, basic amenities and life jackets. Over 30 children are on board and suffering from ill health including diarrhea. The boat was built to accommodate 50 people, yet there are nearly 250 people on board with access to only one toilet. 

On Christmas Eve one of the young men, Charles Jacob, died due to extreme illness after being refused treatment by Indonesian authorities and the IOM. 

The Australian public, government and media have been aware of the situation of this boat for nearly three months yet nothing has been done to expedite their cases or assist with their situation. 

We implore the Australian Government to show compassion to these people, all of whom have genuine claims for asylum. Over 100 of the people on board already have refugee documentation from the UNHCR, while 24 have letter stating they are in the final stages of refugee documentation. The rest are waiting for the UNHCR to meet with them to process their claims. 

We ask you to allow their cases to be processed on Australian soil. 

We ask you to ensure that medical treatment and supplies are offered to those suffering on the boat.

Indonesian Solidarity Forum

The Indonesia Solidarity Forum www.solidarityforum.org