Ministry of Manpower Expands Network with Japanese Local Governments

RRI.CO.ID, Tokyo – The Ministry of Manpower enhanced the readiness of Indonesian human resources to capitalize on internship and skill development opportunities under the Employment for Skill Development Program (ESDP) in Japan. This effort is being pursued through the exchange of information, knowledge, and experience with the Japan Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (J.CLAIR).

Secretary-General of the Ministry of Manpower, Cris Kuntadi, highlighted the benefits of this knowledge exchange for Indonesia. He stated it helps the country learn how Japanese local governments and J.CLAIR assist ESDP participants in adapting to life in Japan.

“We are keen to understand the role of local governments and J.CLAIR in supporting the reception, living conditions, and integration of ESDP participants at the local level. This will provide valuable insights for Indonesia in preparing participants, both prior to departure and during their stay in Japan,” Cris said in Tokyo on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

He emphasized that the ESDP offers more than just employment opportunities; it serves as a platform for participants to acquire technical skills, work experience, technological know-how, and an understanding of Japanese work culture. Consequently, preparing participants requires more than developing technical competence; it also necessitates equipping them with an understanding of daily life and the local environment where they will live and work.

“The success of the ESDP depends heavily on the readiness of both the work and social environments in the host regions. Therefore, we want to learn how J.CLAIR fosters a welcoming environment for foreign workers, including its coordination among central and local governments, communities, and the private sector,” Cris added.

He noted that Japan’s experience in assisting foreign workers can inform the Ministry's strategies in preparing Indonesian ESDP participants. Moving forward, Cris expressed hope that the collaboration between the Ministry and Japan will continue to grow—extending beyond placement programs to include skill development, labor market information exchange, training enhancements, and local government support during the participants' stay.

“We remain open to further discussions on potential joint programs, particularly regarding knowledge sharing and best practices in managing and integrating foreign manpower at the local level,” Cris said.