PHK Meningkat, Anak Muda Makin Sulit Cari Kerja? Ini Faktanya!

Summary

The unemployment rate in Indonesia has risen in the past two years, especially among youth aged 24 and under, with 7.28 million unemployed by February 2025. Despite claims of the lowest unemployment rate since 1998, the youth demographic remains underemployed. The government has introduced job creation and training programs but struggles with a skills mismatch, informal work, and age restrictions on job opportunities. The country’s challenge lies in bridging the gap between education, skill development, and industry demands, while also addressing the disparities in job availability across different regions and age groups.

Takeaways

• 😀 Unemployment in Indonesia has become a significant issue in the past two years, largely due to frequent layoffs (PHK) and an overall struggling economy.
• 😀 Youth unemployment is a major concern in Indonesia, with the younger age group dominating unemployment figures, especially those under 24 years old.
• 😀 According to the latest data from BPS, the unemployment rate in Indonesia as of February 2025 stands at 7.28 million people, marking a 1.11% increase compared to last year.
• 😀 The Indonesian government claims a reduction in the unemployment rate to the lowest since 1998, but many young people are still struggling to find stable employment.
• 😀 A significant portion of Indonesia's labor force (59.4%) is employed informally, making them vulnerable to economic changes and without access to social security or job benefits.
• 😀 The government has implemented strategies to address unemployment, such as creating job opportunities across various sectors and providing training and entrepreneurship programs.
• 😀 Despite the government's efforts, the job market is still challenging for young people, with many competing for limited opportunities in job fairs (Job Fairs).
• 😀 Graduates often face challenges due to mismatched skills, with employers seeking candidates with experience that fresh graduates typically lack.
• 😀 Age restrictions in job requirements also limit opportunities for older workers, even though they are still within the productive age range.
• 😀 Experts argue that the underlying issue lies in the mismatch between the skills of the workforce and the needs of the job market, exacerbated by an economic slowdown and industry-specific changes.
• 😀 The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted education and skill development, especially for vocational students, which has contributed to the skill mismatch in the workforce today.

Q & A

What has been the trend of unemployment in Indonesia in the last two years?

In the last two years, Indonesia has faced an increase in layoffs (PHK), which has led to rising unemployment rates. This has been particularly noticeable among the youth population, with a significant number of young people struggling to find stable employment.

How does the unemployment rate in Indonesia compare to other ASEAN countries?

Indonesia's unemployment rate is among the highest in the ASEAN region. As of February 2025, Indonesia recorded 7.28 million unemployed individuals, marking an increase of 1.11% compared to the same period the previous year.

What are the challenges faced by young people in Indonesia's job market?

Young people, particularly those under the age of 24, are the largest group of unemployed individuals in Indonesia. The primary challenges include a mismatch between their education and industry needs, as well as limited access to quality job opportunities.

What is the government's stance on the unemployment rate in Indonesia?

Despite the rising unemployment figures, Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yasir Erli, claims that the unemployment rate is at its lowest since 1998. He also highlights the creation of 3.59 million jobs across various sectors as an achievement.

Why is there still a struggle for many young people to secure decent jobs despite the government's efforts?

Many young people struggle to find decent work because of factors like skill mismatches, limited job opportunities in specific regions, and job requirements that demand experience or higher qualifications, making it difficult for fresh graduates to compete.

What strategies are being implemented by the government to reduce unemployment?

The government is focusing on creating more job opportunities through various ministries, offering job training programs, and fostering entrepreneurship. However, the government needs to address structural issues within the workforce, such as the dominance of informal workers who lack social protection.

What is the situation with informal workers in Indonesia?

As of February 2025, 59.4% of Indonesia's workforce is engaged in informal employment, which means they often lack access to social security benefits or job stability. This makes them more vulnerable to economic changes.

How does the job market in Indonesia affect workers' skillsets?

There is a significant skills mismatch in the job market. Many graduates, especially those from vocational schools, face difficulties in applying their skills in the workplace, especially due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic that impacted practical training.

How do age limitations on job applications affect the job market for young people in Indonesia?

Age restrictions often limit young people's opportunities to enter the workforce. Job listings frequently set age limits, excluding younger applicants who are still in their early 20s but may still have the potential to contribute productively to the economy.

What does the expert say about the relationship between education and employment opportunities in Indonesia?

Experts highlight that while higher education can open doors, it does not guarantee employment. The key challenge lies in the mismatch between academic qualifications and the skills needed by industries, making it harder for graduates to secure jobs.