RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia and Japan are strengthening their strategic partnership in human capital development, with a focus on cultivating globally competitive talent.

The commitment was highlighted during a meeting between Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Muhaimin Iskandar, and Japan’s Minister for Harmonious Coexistence with Foreign Nationals, Kimi Onoda, in Tokyo. Muhaimin affirmed Indonesia’s readiness to serve as a strategic partner by providing professional, globally skilled workers.

“Indonesia is pushing for the alignment of vocational education and competency certification, as well as advancing Mutual Recognition Agreements in priority sectors,” Muhaimin said in a statement from the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

He noted that President Prabowo Subianto has made the development of skilled labor a national priority, tailored to global market demands. The government applies the principle of safe and orderly migration, ensuring workers are equipped with technical skills, workplace culture, and adaptability.

Both countries agreed to expand opportunities for Indonesian workers in Japan, a move seen as mutually beneficial. Experience gained in Japan is expected to enhance Indonesian workers’ competencies, which they can later apply upon returning home.

Indonesia’s Ambassador to Japan, Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir, emphasized that human capital cooperation is a cornerstone of bilateral ties. “This collaboration also strengthens the friendship between Indonesia and Japan,” she said.

During the visit, Minister Muhaimin also conveyed condolences over the Kumamoto earthquake, expressing hope for a smooth recovery process. Earlier, he met Japan’s Justice Minister Hiraguchi Hiroshi to discuss reinforcing legal, safe, and protected labor migration.

According to the Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo, the number of Indonesian nationals in Japan reached 266,069 by the end of 2025, an increase of 33.2 percent compared to the previous year. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)