Entering the second half of 2025, Indonesia’s labor market has seen several notable developments. From the decline in Jakarta’s unemployment rate, the manufacturing sector’s return to expansion, to efficiency measures by major tech companies, these trends highlight the current dynamics of the job market. On the regulatory side, the government has strengthened worker protection and launched new platforms to support careers, creating both opportunities and challenges for employers and the workforce.
Here’s the full overview.
Corporate Info
Jakarta Unemployment Drops to 6.18%, Local Government Pushes Training and Job Fairs
Jakarta’s Open Unemployment Rate (TPT) stood at 6.18% in the first half of 2025, slightly lower than the same period last year. Though modest, the decline signals improvement.
To accelerate progress, the Jakarta Government has launched regular training with 147 active classes and mobile training units focused on foreign languages, boosting workforce competitiveness for both local and global markets. In addition, 13 job fairs have been held so far this year, with a target of 21 by year-end, successfully placing 1,367 job seekers. Social protection programs such as KJP Plus, KJMU, and subsidized food assistance also continue to address inequality.
Indonesia’s Manufacturing PMI Hits 51.5 in August 2025, Back to Expansion Zone
After four months of contraction, Indonesia’s Manufacturing PMI climbed to 51.5 in August 2025, reflecting recovery in both domestic and export demand and signaling sustainable industry growth.
Supporting indicators also improved: new orders rose to 52.3, new export orders 51.2, production output 52.6, employment index 50.4, and raw material purchases 51.6. This expansion trend broadens job creation opportunities, where recruitment firms and headhunters play a vital role in supplying the specialized talent the manufacturing sector increasingly requires.
Tokopedia Restructuring Affects 420 Employees
Tokopedia reportedly laid off around 420 employees between July and August 2025, across IT, customer care, warehouse, and fulfillment divisions.
Parent company TikTok stated the move was part of routine business evaluation and internal restructuring. While not explicitly confirming layoffs, the company emphasized efficiency measures to strengthen organizational resilience and improve services. TikTok also reaffirmed its long-term commitment to investing in Tokopedia and Indonesia.
HR/Labour Law
Workplace Violence Victims Now Covered by BPJS Employment Injury Insurance (JKK)
Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower revised its employment insurance regulation through Ministerial Decree No. 1/2025. A key update is the expansion of Employment Injury Insurance (JKK) coverage to include victims of physical violence and sexual assault at the workplace.
To file claims, employees must provide police reports and medical certificates. The regulation also mandates coverage for non-civil servant state employees, offers more flexible education scholarships for children, and regulates JKM (Death Benefit Insurance) claims for workers with multiple employers. These changes enhance protection certainty and streamline claims for workers and beneficiaries.
SIAPkerja: One Platform for Job Seekers and Independent Workers
SIAPkerja, launched by the Ministry of Manpower, offers an integrated solution for job seekers and freelancers. Users gain access to job postings, training, skills certification, and entrepreneurship programs that help improve employability and career growth.
The platform is easy to access—just register at siap-kerja.kemnaker.go.id or via the mobile app, complete your profile, and start exploring available services. With its comprehensive features, SIAPkerja bridges job seekers, training, and industry, supporting both career development and worker independence.
