By: Feronika Jasin
The Indonesian government consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to maintaining the resilience of the labor sector, particularly in preventing potential layoffs amid global economic challenges. The crises brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, global economic slowdown, and industrial disruptions have not dampened the government’s determination to protect the working population. Beyond focusing on economic recovery, the government is also actively creating new job opportunities to reduce unemployment and build a robust and sustainable employment ecosystem.
Concrete and measurable actions have been implemented, including wage subsidies, industry-driven job training, and support for strategic sectors. These programs have proven effective not only in preserving affected jobs but also in enhancing the competitiveness of Indonesia’s human resources in responding to market changes and technological developments. The government has shown a swift and adaptive policy response to maintain social and economic stability.
Noudhy Valdryno, Deputy for Dissemination and Media Information at the Presidential Communications Office, emphasized that President Prabowo has a strategic vision in addressing global challenges. His three major breakthroughs—expanding trade partnerships, accelerating natural resource downstreaming, and strengthening domestic consumption resilience—are progressive policies that are urgently needed. These policies reflect visionary, bold, and decisive leadership to safeguard national economic stability amid increasingly complex external pressures.
These policies also position Indonesia as a globally competitive country, with an increasingly strong bargaining position in international trade. The government continues to treat global challenges as momentum for economic reform that directly contributes to job creation and the strengthening of national economic resilience.
The government is also proactively developing future economic sectors such as the digital economy, creative industries, and green industry. This transformation is creating broad and diverse job opportunities, from software developers and graphic designers to data managers and systems analysts. It proves that the government is paving the way for the younger generation to contribute meaningfully to national development. The government’s focus on an innovation-based economy also reflects a policy direction committed to progress and sustainability.
Adies Kadir, Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), noted that the tariff policies imposed by the United States on Indonesian products indeed pose a serious challenge. However, President Prabowo’s strategic response to this pressure reflects Indonesia’s assertiveness as a sovereign nation. Rather than being a setback, the challenge has pushed the government to explore new export markets, strengthen local industries, and build an economy that is not dependent on a single trade partner.
Although key sectors such as textiles and electronics have been impacted, the government continues to encourage MSMEs and local industries to upgrade. Through various incentives, financing facilities, and product innovation support, business players are now better positioned to compete globally and open new jobs across the country. The government’s tangible presence among entrepreneurs shows that the state acts not only as a regulator but also as a facilitator of the people’s economic progress.
Anindya Novyan Bakrie, Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KADIN), praised the strong collaboration between the government and the business community. He stated that the government’s initiatives to prevent layoffs and maintain industrial stability are commendable and should continue to be supported. Anindya also encouraged greater investment in incentives and job training to ensure that Indonesian workers remain adaptive and competitive amid global changes.
This collaboration between the government and businesses proves that the spirit of mutual cooperation in tackling labor challenges is very much alive. The government is not merely playing a regulatory role, but also actively partnering to maintain business continuity and protect workers. Through this collaborative approach, Indonesia is not only surviving but also thriving and creating opportunities during times of crisis.
It is also important to underline the critical role of the younger generation in driving productivity and national economic growth. The government is encouraging youth participation through various programs such as business incubation, entrepreneurship training, and funding support for startups. Thus, young people are not only job seekers but also job creators—innovative, adaptive, and technology-driven.
Vocational education has also become a cornerstone in preparing a ready-to-work labor force. The government continues to strengthen the synergy between educational institutions and industry to ensure curriculum alignment with job market needs. Competent vocational graduates are expected to fill gaps in key industries, thereby supporting inclusive and equitable economic growth.
Overall, the government’s policies and programs clearly show that Indonesia is on the right path in maintaining national employment stability. By continuously strengthening the domestic labor market, improving workforce competitiveness, and opening new job opportunities, the government demonstrates firm leadership that prioritizes the people and focuses on a more prosperous future.
The author is a Researcher in Economics and Development at the Indonesian Prosperous Economic Forum
