RRI.CO.ID, Tokyo - Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI) in Japan gained valuable insights into the importance of social security through a collaborative dialog hosted by the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo in partnership with the Social Security Agency for Employment (BPJS Ketenagakerjaan).

The event, held at the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo on Sunday, January 25, 2026, was conducted in a bid to raise awareness among Indonesian migrant workers (PMI) about the importance of social security.

Coordinator of Protocol and Consular Affairs at the Embassy, Dara Yusilawati, expressed hope that Indonesian trainees in Japan would take advantage of BPJS programs. 

“There are currently more than 180,000 Indonesian migrant workers in Japan, including 110,000 trainees and 69,000 specified skilled workers (SSW)," Dara said, as quoted on the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs official website. 

"Trainees are also workers entitled to the same rights, yet they remain more vulnerable to workplace accidents. We hope they too can benefit from BPJS Ketenagakerjaan,” she added. 

The dialog provided a comprehensive overview of the facilities and benefits available to PMI in Japan. BPJS representatives explained technical aspects such as registration procedures and claim mechanisms, ensuring that Indonesian workers can fully access their rights.

“BPJS Ketenagakerjaan offers protection for PMI before departure, during employment, and after returning home. As a government-established legal entity, BPJS ensures the state is present to safeguard migrant workers,” BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Director of Service, Roswita Nilakurnia, said.

For PMI, BPJS coverage includes workplace accident insurance and death benefits, with highly affordable contributions of around IDR 332,500 for a 24-month period. This protection is particularly vital for workers in high-risk sectors such as construction. 

In addition, BPJS also provides an Old Age Security program to help PMI prepare for their future.

The initiative was warmly welcomed by members of the Indonesian Trainees and Tokutei Gino Association in Japan (IPTIJ). 

Discussions highlighted that Indonesian trainees and SSW, especially newcomers, face heightened risks of workplace accidents and occupational diseases, making comprehensive protection from both Japanese and Indonesian insurance systems essential.

“IPTIJ extends its deepest appreciation to KBRI for facilitating this dialog with BPJS Ketenagakerjaan. This opportunity is invaluable for us to gain clearer and more comprehensive understanding of labor protection for PMI," IPTIJ Chair Fahrul Sabbikhis said. 

"It motivates IPTIJ to remain active, work smart, and serve as a constructive partner in supporting the protection and welfare of Indonesian workers,” he added.

Earlier, on January 23, 2025, the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo had also facilitated a meeting between BPJS Ketenagakerjaan and Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) to discuss bilateral cooperation on social security, aiming to ensure PMI receive protection from both countries. ***