Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower is deploying artificial intelligence to analyze labor market data and design training programs, aiming to create employment policies tied to actual workforce demand. Secretary General Cris Kuntadi said AI helps the ministry move from assumptions to evidence when planning interventions.
Four roles for AI in employment policy
Kuntadi outlined four specific uses of AI in the employment ecosystem: mapping workforce needs across industrial sectors, identifying competency gaps, developing industry-aligned training plans, and supporting evidence-based decisions. He cautioned that technology alone is not enough.
"Let's make AI as a strategic partner to improve public services, strengthen organizational effectiveness, and boost the competitiveness of the Indonesian workforce on the global stage," Kuntadi said.
The secretary general said government officials and workers must adopt an adaptive mindset and commit to continuous learning for the transformation to work. He described abundant labor, cultural cooperation, and a digital learning culture as assets that need to combine with AI technology.
Partnership with Microsoft and universities
The ministry has partnered with Microsoft, Binus University, and GreatNusa to host AI-based job fairs that better match workers with industry demand. Manpower Minister Yassierli said the collaboration launched through an AI Learning Path for HR and job fair called AI Career Boost Day 2026.
"We are working with GreatNusa and Microsoft on an online job fair while strengthening knowledge and skills in artificial intelligence," Yassierli said. He noted that Microsoft has trained about 50,000 people in digital skills in Indonesia but broader cooperation is needed to accelerate workforce development.
The ministry is using 43 training centers nationwide to deliver practical, conventional, digital, and emerging technology-based training. It is also expanding the Siap Kerja platform to increase corporate participation and improve how workers are matched to open positions.
GreatNusa chief operating officer Nita Felia said AI should boost productivity and employment through continuous learning. She pointed to persistent gaps in technology access that require cross-sector cooperation and urged the ministry and its partners to expand online job fairs and career mentoring.
Why this matters for HR professionals
For HR teams, the Indonesia initiative demonstrates how public-sector investment in AI for AI for Human Resources can create a more responsive labor market. HR leaders who follow similar data-driven approaches - identifying skill gaps in real time and aligning training with industry shifts - can reduce the mismatch between job seekers and open roles.
Your membership also unlocks:
