Govt Pushes Inclusive Employment for People with Disabilities

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The government is strengthening efforts to expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities and build a more inclusive labor market nationwide.

The Ministry of Manpower targets at least 100,000 people with disabilities to achieve independence and enter the workforce through competency development and government‑prepared training programs.

“My goal is for 100,000 disabled people to be able to smile at work,” Minister Yassierli said in an online address during the national launch of the Economic Empowerment and Independence for Beneficiaries (PEKA) program by BPJS Ketenagakerjaan in Pontianak on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He emphasized that employment opportunities for people with disabilities must be based on competence rather than pity. The government is preparing infrastructure and specialized training modules to equip disabled individuals with skills demanded by industry.

A competency training center for people with disabilities is being established in Bekasi, along with tailored training materials. The goal is to ensure participants gain industry‑relevant skills and can work independently.

“We want them to be present in the industry not out of pity, but because they possess the necessary competence,” he said.

Minister Yassierli stressed that building an inclusive work ecosystem requires collaboration among multiple stakeholders. The central government, regional administrations, Workers Social Security Agency (BPJS Ketenagakerjaan), the banking sector, the business community, and other partners must work together to expand job access and strengthen community independence.

He praised BPJS Ketenagakerjaan’s economic empowerment and independence program, which helps beneficiaries and heirs use benefit payouts as business capital.

He said the program could be strengthened through collaboration with the Ministry of Manpower’s Tenaga Kerja Mandiri (Independent Workforce) program, which provides mentoring and guidance for individuals starting and developing their own businesses.

“BPJS Ketenagakerjaan doesn’t just provide funds or benefits; we also ensure these resources are used effectively,” he said.

The Ministry of Manpower has thousands of profiles of independent workers who have successfully developed their businesses. This mentoring model, he said, can serve as a reference for strengthening economic empowerment and fostering self‑reliance.

Beyond entrepreneurship, the government is expanding the national apprenticeship program to 150,000 participants by 2026, particularly for university graduates who need experience and competency development before entering the workforce.

These initiatives form part of the government’s broader effort to build an inclusive labor market and create opportunities for groups that have historically faced greater barriers to employment.

“Our driving spirit is to prioritize the nation’s interests. We find fulfillment in helping people reach a better place in life,” he said. ***