"Today, I visited IMI Chairman Bambang Soesatyo's office to explore this cooperation in skilled labor placement," KP2MI Minister Abdul Kadir Karding said during a visit to the IMI office on Monday.
Japan has a growing demand for mechanics and drivers, and the Indonesian Motor Association (IMI) is prepared to support the initiative by providing infrastructure, capital, and commitment, he said.
The collaboration was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed by Minister Karding, IMI Chairman Soesatyo, and Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) Deputy Chair for Migrant Worker Protection Nofel Saleh Hilabi.
Karding described the initiative as a breakthrough, involving the automotive sector in strengthening the absorption of skilled labor.
"This is our first collaboration with IMI, not just for business, but to help reduce unemployment and support the domestic workforce," he said.
Related news: Indonesia, Japan to collaborate for migrant workers' recruitment
"With Japan facing an aging population, the demand is significant. We can't meet it alone. We must involve private sector partners like IMI and Kadin," he added.
The partnership aims to produce job-ready workers, reduce unemployment, and boost remittances from migrant workers, which totaled IDR 253.3 trillion (USD15.6 billion) last year, he said.
IMI Chairman Soesatyo welcomed the partnership, noting the global demand for drivers and mechanics.
"IMI is ready to supply trained personnel to meet international labor market needs," he said.
"We plan to begin construction of a training center by October, using left-hand-drive vehicles for training and working with automotive companies like Toyota to provide engines for future mechanics," he added.
Soesatyo said the initiative marks a new chapter for IMI, which had previously focused on automotive sports, tourism, and community activities.
"Now we are contributing to workforce preparation for Japan, Europe, and the Middle East. We want IMI's presence as an automotive organization to deliver real benefits to the public," he said.
Related news: Migrant worker placements to Japan not in jeopardy: minister
Translator: Katriana
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
