World Labour Forum: Minister Yassierli Asserts Technological Change Must Not Leave Workers Behind
At the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland, the Indonesian Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, detailed several programmes initiated by President Prabowo Subianto to prepare the future workforce.
Amidst the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and shifting global work dynamics, Yassierli emphasised that workers must maintain essential skills, job opportunities, and adequate protections. He asserted that technological advancements must not result in workers being left behind. Consequently, Indonesia has prioritised skill enhancement, job creation, and worker protection as key agendas for the future of work.
“Technological change must not leave workers behind. Therefore, Indonesia is preparing skills, expanding job opportunities, and strengthening worker protections so that the community continues to have a decent future of work,” stated Minister Yassierli in a statement on Tuesday, 9 June 2026.
He highlighted that these issues are critical as changes in the working world are already impacting how individuals work, seek employment, and survive in the labour market. He noted that young people require work experience, school graduates need relevant training, and workers in digital and high-risk sectors require stronger protections.
During the forum, the Minister conveyed that under President Prabowo Subianto’s direction, strengthening the skills of the future workforce has become a national priority. One such initiative is the National Apprenticeship Programme for university graduates, which provides six months of work experience supported by government-funded stipends.
According to the Minister, the National Apprenticeship Programme reached 100,000 participants last year, with a target increase to 150,000 participants this year. Additionally, the government is implementing the National Vocational Training Programme for high school graduates and equivalents, targeting 300,000 participants.
“These programmes also provide equal opportunities for women, persons with disabilities, and communities from remote and border regions,” the Minister added.
Furthermore, Yassierli noted that skill enhancement must go hand-in-hand with job creation. In his speech, he outlined several of President Prabowo Subianto’s strategic programmes—such as the Free Nutritious Meal programme, the Red and White Fishing Village, the Red and White Village/Sub-district Cooperatives, the Food Estate, and downstreaming projects—as part of an agenda aimed at creating millions of new jobs.