"The demographic bonus will be a strength if we can produce a productive workforce. Therefore, we are intensifying vocational programs," Mukhtarudin said in a statement after meeting with the Executive Board of the Indonesian Islamic Student Movement (PB PMII) at the KP2MI office on Wednesday (9/17).
In addition to strengthening vocational programs, KP2MI also utilizes job training centers and explores global market opportunities to ensure that Indonesian migrant workers are well-prepared, competitive, and aligned with market demands.
Mukhtarudin noted that Indonesia is currently experiencing a demographic bonus, which could strengthen the national economy if the workforce is productive.
He stressed that enhancing the skills of migrant workers is in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to prioritize both their protection and capacity building.
"The President’s directive is clear: the Ministry of P2MI must focus on protecting and developing the capacity of Indonesian migrant workers," he emphasized.
He also highlighted the development of the Golden Migrant Village ecosystem to ensure safe migration from the village level through to their return and reintegration as entrepreneurs.
"Our focus is on producing migrant workers with knowledge, skills, and a productive mindset," he said.
Mukhtarudin further emphasized that KP2MI is ready to collaborate with all parties, including PB PMII, to promote safe migration practices.
"We are ready to work with PMII at both central and regional levels. The role of large organizations like PMII is vital in strengthening literacy, outreach, and pre-departure protection to prevent migrant workers from becoming victims of human trafficking or irregular migration," he said.
Meanwhile, M. Razik Ilham, Head of PMII’s Manpower Division, welcomed the initiative, noting that many Indonesians, particularly Generation Z, still lack awareness of safe migration practices.
"Human trafficking cases increasingly involve young people, especially Gen Z. This step is crucial to strengthen literacy and education, from campuses to villages with migrant worker enclaves," he said.
Ilham stressed that promoting safe and procedural migration is key to preventing prospective workers from being deceived or exploited.
He affirmed that PB PMII is ready to synergize with KP2MI in literacy programs, training, safe migration campaigns, and advocacy for migrant worker protection.
"With the involvement of the younger generation, we believe outreach can be more effective, reducing the risk of human trafficking and illegal placement," he added.
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Translator: Katriana
Editor: Primayanti
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