Pontianak, W Kalimantan (ANTARA) – Indonesian Manpower Minister Yassierli aims to help at least 100,000 people with disabilities achieve greater independence and enter the workforce through government-backed training and skills development programs.
He made the statement in virtual remarks at the kickoff of BPJS Ketenagakerjaan’s Beneficiary Economic Empowerment and Independence Program on Tuesday.
According to Yassierli, the government is establishing a vocational training center for people with disabilities in Bekasi and developing specialized training modules to equip them with job-ready skills.
“We want them to enter the workforce because of their competence, not because of pity,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of collaboration among the central government, regional governments, BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, the banking sector, and other stakeholders to expand job opportunities and foster economic independence.
The minister commended the economic empowerment initiative launched by BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, which enables beneficiaries and heirs to use their compensation payments as business capital.
He said the program could be further strengthened through collaboration with the Ministry of Manpower, which runs the Independent Workers Program to provide mentoring and guidance to new entrepreneurs.
Yassierli noted that the Ministry of Manpower already has thousands of successful independent worker profiles, providing a proven coaching model that could serve as a benchmark for strengthening economic empowerment initiatives.
In addition to entrepreneurship, the government is expanding its national internship program, targeting 150,000 participants in 2026 and focusing on university graduates who need hands-on experience and skills before entering the job market.
He added that the program supports government efforts to strengthen human resources and promote community independence toward a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia.
“Our commitment is to put the nation’s interests first. Our joy lies in helping lead people to a better place,” the minister said.
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Translator: Rendra Oxtora, Raka Adji
Editor: Primayanti
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