BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Responds to Viral Video of Trainee 'Fire Walking' Exercise
The Social Security Administering Body for Employment (BPJS Ketenagakerjaan) has issued a statement regarding a video showing prospective employees participating in a fire-walking training session. Erfan Kurniawan, Deputy of Communication at BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, stated that walking on fire is one of the sessions within the Work Preparation Orientation Programme (OPK), which is part of the agency’s human resource development process.
“This programme is designed as an initial foundation for prospective employees to possess competence, integrity, work ethics, character, and mental readiness aligned with organisational values and good governance principles, enabling them to provide the best service to participants,” Erfan said in a written statement on Sunday, 2 August 2026.
Erfan explained that the OPK is structured, systematic, and measurable through various complementary classroom and field-based learning methods. The approach aims to build technical competence, teamwork, leadership, communication, discipline, adaptability, and empathy as essential tools for serving BPJS Ketenagakerjaan participants. He clarified that the fire-walking activity is an experiential learning method used to support the programme’s objectives and is not the primary substance or a mandatory requirement of the entire OPK series. Instead, it is a specific approach used to help build self-confidence, self-control, discipline, and mental toughness.
Furthermore, BPJS Ketenagakerjaan ensured that all OPK activities are conducted under the supervision of competent instructors, following prepared procedures, and prioritising the safety and security of participants. The agency also noted that all participants are in good condition and are ready to carry out their duties across Indonesia. The agency expressed appreciation for public feedback as part of their ongoing evaluation and improvement efforts.
Netizens had previously highlighted a video showing prospective employees walking barefoot over hot coals. The footage, shared by various social media accounts, prompted questions regarding the training budget and the necessity of such activities. The video depicted participants in green long-sleeved shirts and black trousers, accompanied by individuals in military-style camouflage, performing the task in a forested area.