Batang SEZ Trains Hundreds of Students to Curb High Worker Turnover

The Batang Industropolis Special Economic Zone (KEK) is training hundreds of students through the Future Industry Resilience Programme (PRIMA) to prevent new workers from quitting. The initiative targets 160 high school and vocational students in Batang Regency, aiming to build the discipline, physical stamina, and character needed to survive in an industrial work environment.

KEK Batang Industropolis Acting President Director Indri Septa Respati said the high turnover rate among young workers is a pressing issue. “Some students get jobs but resign within one to three months. The turnover rate can reach 30 percent,” Indri said on Friday. She noted that many graduates possess basic skills but are unprepared for the discipline, teamwork, and work culture of factories.

PRIMA is designed to strengthen their character so they can not only secure employment but also sustain it. “We want the children of Batang to not just get jobs, but to endure and build careers,” Indri said. The programme, which involves eight industrial tenants, includes training on discipline, regular routines, physical endurance, and understanding industrial work culture. KEK Batang plans to continue the programme next year to meet growing labour demand.

Participant Melisa Fitriani, 17, a student from SMK Ma’arif NU 01 Limpung, said the five-day training improved her daily discipline and physical fitness. Fellow participant Rizki Dimas Pradita, 17, from SMK Negeri 1 Blado, said he competed with around 1,500 other applicants for a place and hopes the experience will help him become more disciplined. Parent Evi Sulistiyawati admitted initial worry about her child’s health but expressed pride in her participation.