Minister of Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto showcased the success of the Kartu Prakerja (Pre-Employment Card) program before high-ranking officials from the Asia-Pacific region. He made his presentation virtually during the High-Level Thematic Roundtable on Digital Innovations for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, which is part of the 80th session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.
In his address on Tuesday (23/4), as quoted from the official statement, Airlangga proudly stated, “The Kartu Prakerja program has achieved significant success, benefiting 18.7 million Indonesian citizens across 514 districts and cities in 38 provinces. With 51 percent female participants, 12 percent aged over 50, and 3 percent participants with disabilities.”
Airlangga emphasized Indonesia’s ongoing commitment to drive digital innovation, aiming to accelerate the development of the digital economy as a strategic pillar towards a more advanced Indonesian economy.
As the chairman of the Golkar Party, Airlangga expressed Indonesia’s commitment to comprehensively strengthen research and development (R&D) aspects. Furthermore, he highlighted Indonesia’s ambition to boost technological innovation.
“Indonesia’s focus is to create a productive, advanced, and high-value-added business ecosystem through the digitalization of priority economic sectors. This includes a specific focus on empowering micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), technology startups, and enhancing cybersecurity,” he elaborated.
He emphasized that the Kartu Prakerja serves as a platform for skills development and enhancement of work competencies. This government program also targets entrepreneurship aspects for job seekers, including MSME players.
Moreover, Airlangga stressed that the Kartu Prakerja could be utilized by those already employed who seek to enhance their skills or competencies. It also serves as an alternative for those affected by layoffs (PHK).
