Dutch PM apologizes for historical injustice against Moluccans

Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten formally apologized on behalf of the government to the first generation of Moluccans who were brought to the Netherlands 75 years ago, acknowledging that they were subjected to "historical injustice."

Speaking at the inauguration of a new national monument for Moluccans in Rotterdam, Jetten stated, "For the heartless and dishonorable dismissal from military service, for the inadequate reception and housing, for not being seen and being abandoned, for the unfulfilled longing for home, for the grief and pain in so many Moluccan families, I offer my apologies today on behalf of the Dutch government."

Jetten recognized that this poor treatment has left "deep scars" on Dutch society, referencing past train hijackings by Moluccans in the 1970s. However, he stressed that the Netherlands must avoid the mistake of reducing Moluccan history solely to those events, emphasizing the message that "You are seen."

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For the heartless and dishonorable dismissal from military service, for the inadequate reception and housing, for not being seen and being abandoned, for the unfulfilled longing for home, for the grief and pain in so many Moluccan families, I offer my apologies today on behalf of the Dutch government.

The apologies were met with applause and cheers from those in attendance. Jetten highlighted the importance of offering these apologies while representatives of the first generation are still alive. He also stated that apologies must be followed by actions, though concrete plans for government action remain unclear, emphasizing that the Moluccan community in the Netherlands must have a significant voice in shaping future steps.

Historically, many Moluccan soldiers fought alongside the Dutch during Indonesia's war of independence. Labeled as traitors by the Indonesian government after the war and facing oppression, thousands of Moluccan soldiers and their families were transported to the Netherlands. The initial promise was temporary stay and assistance in returning home, but many were dismissed from service and housed in isolated camps.

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You are seen.