Turkey Dominates as Destination for Buleleng Migrant Workers in 2026, Mostly Spa Therapists
A total of 567 Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) from Buleleng Regency departed to work abroad between January and June 2026. Turkey has become the most sought-after destination for migrant workers from Buleleng, particularly for spa therapist and hospitality positions.
The head of the Buleleng Manpower, Transmigration, Energy and Mineral Resources Office (Disnakertrans ESDM), Putu Arimbawa, acknowledged that geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East have affected the placement of Indonesian workers in several countries in the region. As a result, placements have shifted to countries with relatively stable security.
“Demand for workers to countries such as Kuwait and Abu Dhabi came to a complete halt due to the global situation. Because of that, worker placements shifted to countries that are relatively more stable,” Arimbawa said when contacted on Thursday (16 July 2026).
According to him, Turkey became the most popular destination for migrant workers in 2026, especially in the spa and hospitality sectors. Besides Turkey, Poland has also recorded an increase in demand for spa therapists from Buleleng.
Furthermore, Bulgaria has become one of the destination countries in Eastern Europe offering many job opportunities in the hospitality sector. There is also demand for workers to go to the Maldives, although the numbers are not as high as other destination countries.
On the other hand, Arimbawa admitted that he does not have data on migrant workers from Buleleng employed on cruise ships. This is because placements in that sector fall under the seafarer category, which comes under the authority of the Ministry of Transport.
Arimbawa reminded the public not to be easily tempted by overseas job offers promising high salaries without clear procedures. According to Arimbawa, such schemes are often exploited by perpetrators of people trafficking crimes (TPPO).
“We urge the public to keep using official channels, whether through verified independent departures or through Indonesian Migrant Worker Placement Companies (P3MI) that hold licences,” he added.
Arimbawa explained that migrant workers who depart through proper procedures will receive better protection, including employment social security from Indonesia as well as protection from companies in the destination country.
He expressed hope that the public will increasingly understand the importance of following official procedures so that their safety and rights as migrant workers remain protected while working abroad. “Such protection is very important, including as a guarantee in the event of workplace accidents, employment issues, or funding for repatriation in an emergency,” he concluded.