Jakarta Government Denies Job Fairs Are Mere Formalities

The Jakarta Provincial Government has dismissed widespread public scepticism suggesting that job fairs are only held as a formality without genuine recruitment intentions. The South Jakarta Manpower, Transmigration, and Energy Sub-department (Sudin Nakertransgi) addressed these concerns during the Jakarta Selatan Career Fest & Bazaar 2026.

Syamwil, Head of the South Jakarta Sudin Nakertransgi, stated that the primary goal of the event is to directly connect job seekers with employers to increase the chances of hiring. “Our hope is to reduce unemployment, especially in South Jakarta. We also hope employers meet job seekers face-to-face. This direct interaction is far more beneficial than online methods because job seekers can meet companies directly and have greater spirit and hope,” Syamwil told CNBC Indonesia on Tuesday.

This year’s event features 37 companies attending in person and two participating online. Sectors represented include banking, retail, and food and beverage. The event also involves the South Jakarta Regional Job Training Centre (PPKD), BP3MI, and the Ministry of Manpower. The job fair is being held in a hybrid format, with online registration open from 30 June to 15 July 2026. Syamwil noted that approximately 3,299 job vacancies with thousands of job types are available for seekers.

Syamwil also rejected the notion that companies attend without actual hiring needs. He argued the event benefits all parties and urged residents to take advantage of the remaining opportunities. “I think that assumption is incorrect. This job fair is very beneficial for many parties. We are opening the widest possible opportunity for unemployed South Jakarta residents to come. This is not just for one day; there is still a chance until tomorrow. The important thing is effort, and we leave the results to God Almighty,” he said.

Sudin Nakertransgi confirmed that all participating companies underwent a selection process before being allowed to set up booths. Verification included checking company legality, Business Identification Numbers (NIB), and business field suitability based on the Indonesian Standard Industrial Classification (KBLI). Companies that did not meet the requirements were excluded. Furthermore, vacancies were published in advance on the Jakarta Provincial Government’s career platform to ensure recruitment was not conducted haphazardly.