PNM opens employment pathways for tens of thousands of high school graduates from underprivileged families

According to data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS), vocational and senior high school graduates remain a demographic with a relatively high open unemployment rate compared to other education levels. Amidst these challenges, PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (Persero) is presenting a solution that not only focuses on financing and empowering ultra-micro entrepreneurs but also opens up job opportunities for the younger generation in the regions. Through the expansion of services and mentoring for millions of customers, PNM is helping to create jobs that provide space, including for high school and vocational school graduates, to grow, work, and build their futures. This role aligns with the government’s commitment, through the Danantara initiative, to strengthen the MSME sector as a driver of the national economy. Danantara Chief Operating Officer and Head of BUMN Dony Oskaria emphasised that strengthening MSMEs will create a broader multiplier effect, ranging from boosting economic growth and expanding job opportunities to enhancing Indonesia’s competitiveness. Dony also stressed the importance of prioritising employee rights amidst the transformation and consolidation of state-owned enterprises. As part of the Danantara ecosystem, PNM has proven that expanding access to financing and empowerment can deliver broader benefits. The growth in customer numbers has driven an increase in demand for field mentoring staff, thereby opening job opportunities for tens of thousands of high school and equivalent graduates, particularly from underprivileged families. Beyond obtaining formal employment, they also gain opportunities to develop competencies, build career paths, and even continue their education through scholarship programmes provided by PNM. To date, PNM has absorbed more than 70,000 workers across Indonesia, with approximately 88 percent being women, of whom more than 43,000 are high school or equivalent graduates. They serve as the frontline mentors for millions of underprivileged women customers of PNM Mekaar, while also acting as agents of economic empowerment at the community level. PNM President Director Kindaris stated that job creation is an inseparable part of the company’s empowerment mission. Since becoming part of Danantara, PNM has continued to strengthen its contribution, not only by expanding financing access for ultra-micro entrepreneurs but also by opening more inclusive opportunities for Indonesia’s young generation. Kindaris explained that when ultra-micro businesses grow, the need for labour increases, and these opportunities are often filled by high school graduates from underprivileged families who previously had limited access to work. Through this approach, PNM demonstrates that the impact of financing extends beyond merely increasing business capital, as each growing business can drive the family economy, create new job opportunities, and deliver benefits that reach the wider community.