Jakarta, INTI - Yassierli, Indonesia’s Minister of Manpower, has called on workers to prepare for the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) to remain relevant and competitive in an evolving job market.
The statement was delivered in Jakarta on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, amid accelerating global digital transformation.
“The key is not only the technology itself, but how we equip our human resources to be ready. Workers must have the ability to adapt and continuously grow in response to change,” he said.
The Strategic Role of Labor Unions
The minister noted that AI adoption in Indonesia remains below the global average, highlighting the need to accelerate workforce readiness.
He emphasized that labor challenges are not limited to protecting workers’ rights, but also include improving competencies to prevent workers from falling behind.
In this context, labor unions are encouraged to take on a more strategic role in preparing their members for technological advancements.
Strengthening Skills Through Collective Agreements
Enhancing workforce readiness can be achieved through Collective Labor Agreements between companies and employees.
The minister expressed hope that such agreements will not only ensure stable industrial relations but also serve as tools for improving workers’ skills.
Meanwhile, the President Director of PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur, Gusrizal, stated that the agreement would provide legal certainty for all parties while fostering harmonious, dynamic, and fair industrial relations to support business sustainability and shared prosperity.
This initiative is expected to strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesia’s workforce in facing an AI-driven digital era.
Conclusion
Indonesia is taking proactive steps to prepare its workforce for the AI-driven future, with Yassierli emphasizing the importance of adaptability and continuous skill development. By strengthening collaboration between government, industry, and labor unions, the country aims to enhance workforce competitiveness and ensure that human capital remains relevant amid rapid technological change.
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