Far from Home: Stories of Indonesian Migrant Workers

Earlier in 2025, the hashtag #KaburAjaDulu sparked widespread discussion across Indonesian social media. While open to various interpretations, many see it as a grassroots response to uncertainty surrounding national policies still under review.

Looking deeper, this trending phrase reflects a growing enthusiasm—especially among Indonesia’s youth—to seek opportunities abroad. From what we observed online, those engaging with the hashtag are typically educated, digitally literate, and well aware of both national developments and global trends. They are young professionals—either employed, running businesses, or actively job hunting—and students who view overseas migration not as escape, but as opportunity.

At JANZZ.technology, we’ve explored this trend in our latest research paper, which maps Indonesian labor migration across three timeframes: past, present, and future. While economic motives have always been a key driver, migration patterns are evolving. Previously dominated by low-skilled labor in domestic, agricultural, and construction sectors, today’s migration is increasingly defined by skilled talent—engineers, IT professionals, and other high-demand roles in the global workforce.

Our paper includes real stories from Indonesian migrant workers who share their journeys and insights. As a leader in global labor market intelligence, JANZZ.technology contributes not just insights—but real solutions to address complex labor challenges across borders.