Lagi Probation Film Captures the Challenges Young People Face in Finding Work

JAKARTA — In the current economic climate, young people face not only increasingly fierce competition for jobs but also a shortage of vacancies and unfair employment systems. The cast of Lagi Probation: Kerja Ngejar Apa Sih? — Aurora Ribero, Lutfi Afansyah and Gabriella Ekaputri — share that view.

Lutfi, who is also known as a content creator, said young people face major challenges from the very start of the job search. Limited vacancies, combined with the large number of workers who have been laid off, have made competition even tougher.

“Honestly, the job search itself is already a challenge from the outset. There are so few jobs these days — fewer than padel courts,” Lutfi joked when interviewed at the Republika office on Wednesday (21 October 2026).

Lutfi said Lagi Probation: Kerja Ngejar Apa Sih? seeks to portray realities in the workplace. He likened the film to the series Squid Game, in which people must compete against dozens or even hundreds of other candidates for a single position.

“I think people can imagine the film as Squid Game, but in the workplace. There are so many characters, all competing for one position,” Lutfi said.

He said the film would also resonate with a range of audiences. For Gen Z, who are just starting their careers, it could offer a realistic picture of the working world. Those already in employment, meanwhile, may recognise the dramas and conflicts depicted.

Lutfi added that the film, directed by Archie Hekagery, could also provide new insights for older generations. “I think everyone can relate — not just Gen Z or millennials. Even for someone around Mas Archie’s age, the film could be new knowledge and a bit of a refresher. The world of work is like this now: you have to do internships repeatedly before you become an employee,” he said.