The Indonesian Association of Labor Service Companies (APJATI) held the inauguration of its Central Board and Advisory Board for the 2024-2029 term today at the JS Luwansa Hotel. This event marks a significant moment for APJATI as it reaffirms its commitment to supporting the placement of quality Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI), being the oldest and largest member organization in Indonesia.
The inauguration was attended by several key figures, including the Minister of Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection (P2MI), Abdul Kadir Karding, the Deputy Minister of P2MI, the Director of Vocational Training Institutional Development from the Ministry of Manpower, and representatives from friendly nations.
In his speech, APJATI Chairman Said Saleh Alwaini emphasized the commitment to meet government targets, stating that APJATI will fulfill 70% of these goals. "APJATI will continue to collaborate with the government and the private sector to enhance PMI competencies, strengthen protections, and improve representation in host countries. Additionally, APJATI will leverage modern technology to support all stakeholders in the PMI ecosystem, from recruitment and training to placement," he said.
He also added, "This is our golden opportunity. The world needs labor, and Indonesia has great potential. It’s time for us to smartly play our role to maximize the available opportunities."
Minister Abdul Kadir Karding expressed appreciation for APJATI's strategic steps in his remarks. "The government is ready to assist and support P3MI in upgrading the quality of PMIs from unskilled to skilled, including financial aspects. The synergy between APJATI and the government is key to creating a healthier ecosystem and strengthening protections for workers abroad," he stated. Representatives from friendly nations also expressed full support, highlighting the importance of bilateral collaboration in strengthening labor relations. This is a positive signal to open new market opportunities for Indonesian migrant workers.
The Chairman of APJATI, Said Saleh Alwaini, has appointed 48 members to the Central Board and Advisory Board of APJATI for the 2024-2029 term. "Forming a skilled management team is the first step to implement APJATI's programs. This association aims to prioritize efforts to improve the welfare of its members while staying relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Our migrant workers must continuously enhance their skills to compete globally, which requires support from excellent P3MI. Our role is to collaborate with the government, KP2MI, and other stakeholders to achieve this," he added.
Currently, the Indonesian labor sector is the second-largest contributor to foreign exchange after oil and gas, with most contributions coming from migrant workers in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions. APJATI is committed to strengthening existing markets, streamlining the ecosystem, and expanding job markets for Indonesia in various countries, while prioritizing the welfare and protection of workers.
Placing migrant workers in the domestic sector is a crucial first step in empowering them to advance their careers through capacity building and certification, ensuring a transition from unskilled to skilled labor.
With strong collaboration between the government, APJATI, and international partners, it is hoped that Indonesian migrant workers will gain greater recognition as quality labor in the global market.