Bandung City Government Launches Labour-Intensive Programme to Absorb 8,600 Workers

The Bandung City Government is rolling out a labour-intensive programme as an effort to reduce the city’s unemployment rate by absorbing 8,600 workers. Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan stated that this programme is not merely about providing temporary employment, but is part of the government’s tangible effort to maintain the economic stability of its citizens. Farhan revealed that the open unemployment rate in Bandung currently stands at around 7.2 percent. Therefore, the Bandung City Government continues to develop various strategies to open up access to jobs, both through labour-intensive programmes and online and offline job vacancy information services. “The government not only provides jobs, but also provides access to and information about employment. We want to be a bridge between job seekers and the business world, so that job opportunities become more open,” he said. According to him, the thematic labour-intensive programme being run this year is focused on residential environmental cleanliness activities. “Besides helping residents earn an income, the programme is expected to create a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable environment for the community,” he said. He expressed hope that this programme can become a driver of the economy and a temporary solution that has a real impact on the community. “Providing a decent livelihood is our shared obligation. Not only for male heads of families, but for anyone who is struggling for income for their family,” he said.