MFA Spokesman's Comments on the Case of Singaporean Boat Captain Shoo Chiau Huat

                    MFA remains deeply concerned over the long-drawn judicial process related to Mr Shoo Chiau Huat and his prolonged detention in Indonesia since 16 April 2016. 

                    Mr Shoo has now been in detention for nearly a year.  He was originally charged for illegal fishing and trespassing, and subsequently acquitted by the Tanjung Pinang Court on 11 July 2016.  Mr Shoo was then charged and found guilty of immigration offences by the Tanjung Pinang Court on 17 January 2017, and fined 50 million rupiah, or a five-month prison sentence in lieu of the fine.  Today, a third set of new charges for violations under Indonesia’s Shipping Law were read out against Mr Shoo.  MFA also understands that an appeal has been filed with the Supreme Court against Mr Shoo’s acquittal for his illegal fishing charges.  

                    MFA, including the Singapore Embassy in Jakarta and the Singapore Consulate in Batam, have been in constant contact with the Indonesian authorities since Mr Shoo’s detention to ensure that he is accorded his due legal rights under Indonesian law.  The Singapore Government respects the laws and judicial process of Indonesia in connection with Mr Shoo’s case, but remains deeply concerned over his prolonged detention and long-drawn judicial process.  The consecutive charges and multiple trials have extended the time Mr Shoo has spent in detention.  We will continue to reiterate to the Indonesian authorities that Mr Shoo’s case be processed expeditiously, so that he can return to Singapore without further delay.  

                    Officers from MFA and the Singapore Consulate in Batam will also continue to render all necessary consular assistance to Mr Shoo and his family.  MFA would like to remind Singaporeans operating pleasure crafts, recreational fishing vessels and yachts, as well as Singaporeans engaging in business activities in Indonesia, to familiarise themselves with Indonesian laws and the judicial process.

 .    .    .    .    .

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
4 APRIL 2017