“We will no longer allow anyone to go abroad for work, including in the fisheries or trade sectors, without an IPMI card,” he stated.
The IPMI Card, issued by the P2MI Ministry, serves as official identification for Indonesian migrant workers and provides proof of their rights and protection.
Karding made the remarks after delivering a public lecture titled “Opportunities and Challenges of Working Abroad” at Maritime University AMNI in Semarang, Central Java.
He noted that while prospective migrant workers are free to receive training anywhere, they must be officially registered before taking jobs at sea.
“If you want to work abroad as a sailor or ship crew member, you must register and obtain an IPMI card to be eligible for protection,” he said.
Karding acknowledged that working abroad, especially at sea, offers significant financial benefits, and encouraged Unimar AMNI graduates to explore international job opportunities.
“The international standard salary for ship workers is around Rp11.2 million (approximately US$692) per month, about four times the minimum wage in Semarang,” he remarked.
He added that overseas work offers additional advantages, such as professional experience, global networking, and personal growth.
“Working abroad provides valuable experience and exposure to professional work standards in countries like those in Europe. It also helps build networks and develops leadership skills and mentality,” he said.
Meanwhile, Unimar AMNI Semarang Rector Johannes Hutabarat emphasized that the university prepares graduates not only with academic skills but also strong character and mental resilience.
“In addition to academic knowledge, AMNI graduates are trained to have strong character and discipline—essential traits for those aiming to become sailors,” he remarked.
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Translator: Zuhdiar Laeis, Asri Mayang Sari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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