Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesian Minister for Migrant Worker Protection (P2MI), Abdul Kadir Karding, has emphasized the need for adequate funding to enhance the quality of training and placement for Indonesian migrant workers (PMI). President Prabowo Subianto has pledged IDR 45 trillion (approximately $2.9 billion) in gradual allocations to support this initiative.
“I was promised IDR 45 trillion by President Prabowo Subianto to assist with training and deployment of migrant workers. The funds will be disbursed in stages: IDR 15 trillion in the first phase, followed by IDR 30 trillion, reaching a total of IDR 45 trillion,” Karding stated during the Aspataki Award event at Hotel Bidakara, Jakarta, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
Karding explained that the funds will be structured as a revolving fund to ensure easier access for prospective PMI. He highlighted that the skill requirements in destination countries are becoming increasingly stringent, necessitating continuous updates to training programs.
Previously, funding for Indonesia migrant worker training relied on microcredit schemes (KUR). However, this approach proved ineffective as it required guarantees such as certification or work contracts—documents that new applicants typically do not yet possess.
“KUR is difficult to access because it requires collateral, while prospective PMI need funds for training at the initial application stage, not after securing a contract,” Karding explained.
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Beyond funding challenges, the absence of recruitment agents in several destination countries has further complicated training and placement efforts. The increased budget is expected to address these hurdles.
With the IDR 45 trillion allocation, prospective PMI will receive better training facilities and comprehensive assistance throughout their overseas placement process.
“The Ministry of P2MI cannot work alone. We need support from Parliament to realize this program,” Karding emphasized.
The Ministry of P2MI initially set a target of placing 425,000 migrant workers in 2024 but only managed to deploy 297,000. Of these, 80% were domestic workers. With improved training quality, the government aims to secure higher-standard job opportunities for Indonesian migrant workers abroad.
(Becky)
