43,000 layoffs recorded in Indonesia in H1 2026

Indonesia has recorded around 43,000 layoffs in the first six months of 2026, prompting the government to strengthen efforts to monitor labour market conditions and introduce measures aimed at preventing further job losses, according to media reports.

The figure was confirmed by the Ministry of Manpower, which said it is closely tracking employment trends while working with businesses and labour groups to preserve jobs amid ongoing economic pressures.

"Until June, around 43,000 layoff cases have been recorded. Through employment data published every month by the Ministry of Manpower, we continue to monitor the movement of layoff figures," Head of the Ministry's Manpower Planning and Development Agency, Anwar Sanusi, told reporters at the Labour Market Centre Building in South Jakarta on Monday.

Rising layoff trend

According to the ministry, the latest monthly employment data shows layoffs have increased compared with the previous reporting period. Officials said the figures are continuously updated and verified to ensure they accurately reflect labour market conditions across the country.

Anwar said, “The growing number of redundancies has become a key concern for the government, with authorities focusing not only on collecting and validating employment data but also on developing policies to reduce further workforce losses across multiple industries.”

Mitigation measures

One of the government's primary strategies is to strengthen social dialogue between employers, workers and the government. The initiative is designed to help businesses experiencing financial or operational challenges explore alternatives to layoffs while protecting existing jobs.

The Ministry of Manpower is also expanding coordination with companies and labour unions to encourage constructive dialogue in resolving workplace disputes before they result in redundancies.

In addition, the government is considering recommendations from a range of stakeholders, including its special advisers, as it develops policies aimed at addressing Indonesia's rising layoff numbers.

Protecting jobs

The ministry said it hopes these measures will help maintain stable industrial relations while safeguarding employment opportunities as businesses continue to navigate economic uncertainty.