Golden Opportunity for Indonesian Workers in Japan: Growing Demand in Strategic Sectors

Bandung – Japan, with its aging population, is facing a significant labor shortage. As one of the solutions, the Japanese government is opening more job opportunities for foreign workers, including those from Indonesia. Recent data reveals that by 2024, the number of Indonesian workers (TKI) in Japan exceeds 80,000, spread across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and construction.

One of the most in-demand sectors is elderly care (caregivers). With Japan’s senior population continually increasing, the demand for caregivers is projected to grow by 20% in the next five years. Specific programs like Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) have become the main entry point for qualified and certified Indonesian workers.

In addition, the manufacturing and agriculture sectors also absorb thousands of Indonesian workers annually. With modern technology and high work standards, Japan offers valuable work experience and competitive wages, ranging from ¥150,000 to ¥200,000 per month (approximately IDR 15 million to IDR 20 million), depending on location and sector.

Preparation and Collaboration

To meet this demand, the Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Manpower, collaborates with various training institutions, including Vocational Training Centers (BLK), to enhance the skills of prospective workers. Moreover, Japanese language training programs play a crucial role in preparing workers to adapt to Japan’s work culture.

Several Japanese companies are also investing in education and training programs in Indonesia. For instance, Janusa Quality Center offers education and career packages for Indonesian students aspiring to work in Japan.

Challenges and Expectations

Despite these significant opportunities, Indonesian workers face challenges such as cultural adaptation, language barriers, and stringent work requirements. To address this, the Japanese government emphasizes the importance of protecting foreign workers through stricter labor policies.

For Indonesia, sending workers to Japan is not only an economic opportunity but also part of labor diplomacy. With close cooperation, both countries aim to create a mutually beneficial work ecosystem and contribute positively to human resource development.

Sources: Various Sources