Governor requests optimisation of PMI Krama Bali services to accommodate workers

Denpasar (ANTARA) - Bali Governor Wayan Koster has requested the Head of the Manpower and Transmigration Office (Disnakertrans) of Bali to optimise the Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI) Krama Bali services to accommodate migrant workers originating from Bali.

“Implement this PMI Krama Bali application. It is not yet optimal; Balinese PMI and the application system need to be managed properly, with socialisation so that anyone who wants to depart is accommodated,” he stated in Denpasar on Thursday.

In his directives, Koster conveyed that data collection on Balinese PMI is crucial. By knowing their personal data, origins, family details, current workplaces, and employing companies, the local government can quickly address any issues that arise.

“If anything happens, we can quickly find out, without difficulties, and communicate with the consulate; this has not been done yet, which is why we often face problems with sending them or once they are abroad,” he said.

Governor Koster targets the PMI Krama Bali system to be fully operational by mid-2026, incorporating data on PMI working overseas.

“The number of Balinese PMI during COVID-19 was around 22,000, which became known when they returned to Bali, but only a few entered the system, meaning the majority we do not know who these individuals are, so if something happens to them, we lack a rapid service system,” he added.

In addition to considering the data collection system for Balinese PMI, Governor Koster also reminded that the primary focus is to ensure Bali’s human resources or graduates are job-ready and matched with employers.

“Connect them with industries domestically and abroad; many of our high school/vocational graduates work on cruises, in spas, and elsewhere in Japan, Europe, the Middle East, so training needs to be prepared,” said Koster.

The Governor noted that the usual obstacle is capital for departure, where the government should provide facilitation and regulate rogue institutions that demand money from prospective PMI and then abandon them abroad.

“That is why it must be managed so that the public does not become victims. For workers facing problems, or those who have passed away needing repatriation, it must be handled, alongside continuing to create job opportunities through job fairs,” he stated.