Return to Office Becomes Global Trend; Demand for Premium Office Buildings Projected to Increase

JLL Indonesia has released findings from its Workforce Preference Barometer survey, revealing that Indonesia leads globally in implementing return-to-office (RTO) policies. The survey involved 3,100 workers across nine Asia-Pacific markets from various sectors including financial services, technology, manufacturing, and public institutions, with 150 corporate respondents from Indonesia.

The research demonstrates that 87% of Indonesian corporate employees now work under RTO mandates or structured hybrid arrangements, the highest globally and nearly double the Asia-Pacific average. Almost two-thirds of Indonesian workers are required to work full-time from the office, significantly higher than hybrid markets such as Australia and Singapore. This heightened attendance level is driving recovery in the office market.

According to James Taylor, Head of Research at JLL Indonesia, this trend represents a positive signal for the office market cycle. “Indonesia is demonstrating strong recovery momentum. The high prevalence of return-to-office policies is beginning to reduce vacancy rates, particularly in Grade A buildings. With limited new supply expected over the coming years, companies requiring high-quality space need to make faster decisions to secure strategic locations,” he stated.

Returning to office work is not perceived as a burden by the majority of Indonesian workers. The latest survey shows that nearly 90% of Indonesian employees hold positive sentiment towards office work, significantly above the global average of 72%.

However, increased office attendance is accompanied by new employee expectations. Approximately two-thirds of Indonesian workers expect improved office facilities in return for their greater presence—far exceeding the global average of only 39%. Several companies are responding to these demands by enhancing workplace quality, introducing more advanced technology, providing additional benefits, and updating office design and facilities.

According to Rosari Chia, Head of Office Leasing at JLL Indonesia, changes in workforce expectations have fundamentally altered how companies view offices. “Companies now see offices not merely as places to work, but as strategic assets that directly contribute to productivity, innovation, and business competitiveness. Collaboration, employee experience, and office identity indirectly support long-term organisational strategy,” she explained.

With rising office attendance and shifting workforce expectations, companies must reorganise their workspace strategies to align with future business needs. This shift underscores the growing importance of premium office buildings as organisations invest in facilities that enhance employee experience and support long-term competitive advantage.