From Towel Swans to Crabs: Sayyid's Skills Training as Preparation for Work in Kuwait

BOGOR — Muhammad Sayyid Abu Hanifah, 28, is currently working to upgrade his skills in preparation for working abroad, specifically in Kuwait, the Middle East. A graduate of SMK PGRI 1 Bogor, he is motivated to seek overseas employment because he believes the Indonesian labour system focuses too heavily on age rather than competence. According to him, working abroad prioritises a worker’s actual skills over their age. Furthermore, the prospect of higher wages compared to domestic opportunities serves as a significant driver. “I want to go to Kuwait because, in Indonesia, age is often the priority, while skills are overlooked. We can supply labour to overseas markets where age is not the primary metric,” Sayyid told Kompas.com at the Bogor Vocational Training Centre (BLK) on Monday (18/5/2026).

In the practical training room at the BLK, Sayyid was seen meticulously working with bedsheets. He demonstrated the process of making a bed, tucking the sheets firmly under the mattress, layering the blankets, and arranging the pillows. Nearby, his peers were engaged in similar practical exercises under the guidance of instructors. Sayyid shared that he joined the Housekeeping class after receiving information from a member of the Bogor City Regional House of Representatives (DPRD). The 28-year-old decided to pursue housekeeping training to acquire new expertise, following the footsteps of a friend who is currently working as a barista abroad. “It is not exactly the same field, but the point is to acquire new knowledge to expand my capabilities,” he added. He noted that attending the BLK provides significant advantages, such as receiving direct instruction from experts and obtaining professional certificates as formal recognition of his expertise.