Indonesia Sends 1,000 Workers to Bulgaria, Hospitality Sector as Mainstay

Minister of Migrant Worker Protection, Mukhtarudin, released the departure of 1,000 prospective Indonesian migrant workers (CPMI) to Bulgaria. The release took place at the Prama Sanur Beach Hotel in Bali on Thursday (2/4/2026).

The workers will be placed in the hospitality sector. Several officials attended the event, including Commission VI DPR member Gede Sumarjaya Linggih, Deputy Mayor of Denpasar I Kadek Agus Arya Wibawa, as well as officials from the Ministry of P2MI, BPJS Employment, Immigration, and the Bali Provincial Government.

Mukhtarudin stated that the placement of labour is now directed towards improving quality and skills. He referred to the establishment of the Ministry of P2MI through Presidential Regulation No. 139 of 2024, which provides broader authority in managing the placement and protection of migrant workers.

“The President’s directive is very clear: enhance the quality of protection and optimise the placement of medium-high skill labour. We are no longer just focusing on numbers, but on competence and high added value,” Mukhtarudin said in his written statement.

“A significant surge in 2025 and early 2026 proves that the quality of service and work ethic of Indonesian labour is highly recognised in Bulgaria. This is an important gateway in Europe,” Mukhtarudin added.

The government targets the placement of 2,300 workers to Bulgaria gradually, especially in the hospitality and property sectors. To date, 1,900 work permits have been issued. As many as 1,239 candidates already hold work visas, while 570 others are still awaiting processing from the Bulgarian Embassy in Jakarta.

In terms of preparation, 478 workers have completed pre-departure orientation. Another 261 are still in the scheduling stage.

Mukhtarudin also reminded the workers to maintain discipline and comply with rules in the destination country. He highlighted the importance of financial management while working abroad.

“Work professionally, obey the laws of the host country, and manage money wisely. Most importantly, stay away from online gambling and be cautious of rampant online phishing and scams,” he said.

He hopes that the workers can bring home experience and skills after their work period ends.

“Make this opportunity a step to develop, gain global experience, and improve family welfare while still upholding Indonesia’s good name on the international stage,” said the committee.