Building an Inclusive Workforce

Inclusive employment has become an increasingly important issue in Indonesia. With growing awareness and stronger government policies, more organizations are realizing that hiring people with disabilities is not only a social responsibility but also a smart business move.
Creating an inclusive workplace leads to innovation, productivity, and a stronger sense of community.

Here are five key facts about how disability inclusion is shaping the future of work in Indonesia.

1. 1% Job Quota for Private Companies

According to Law No. 8 of 2016 on Persons with Disabilities, private companies with more than 100 employees are required to allocate at least 1% of their job positions for people with disabilities.
This regulation aims to ensure equal opportunity and demonstrate corporate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

2. 2% Job Quota for Government Institutions and State-Owned Enterprises

Public institutions and state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have a higher quota — they are required to provide at least 2% of job positions for people with disabilities.
This policy ensures that the public sector sets an example in promoting equality and inclusion in the workplace.

3. Employees with Disabilities Are Equally Productive and Loyal

Studies show that employees with disabilities are just as productive and loyal — if not more so — than their non-disabled peers.
Their resilience, problem-solving skills, and strong work ethic make them valuable assets for any inclusive organization.

4. Interviews Can Be More Flexible

Inclusion starts at recruitment. Job interviews can be conducted in different formats — written, via video, or with an assistant — as part of reasonable accommodation.
This ensures that every candidate has a fair opportunity to present their skills and potential.

5. Career Opportunities Across All Fields

People with disabilities can pursue careers in a wide range of industries, from hospitality and design to data analytics and information technology.
This shows that ability, not disability, defines one’s potential to succeed in the workplace.

Moving Toward a More Inclusive Future

Inclusive employment is not just a legal obligation — it’s a strategy for building a stronger, more empathetic, and sustainable workplace.
By creating opportunities for people with disabilities, companies can drive innovation, boost morale, and strengthen their social impact.

Let’s continue working together to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to grow, contribute, and succeed. 

 

(A barista from Jumping Stone Coffee & Grill Bali explains how to use different kinds of coffee-making tools during the training on Monday (21/6))
In collaboration with ThisAble Enterprise, DNetwork – Jaringan Kerja Disabilitas held a series of exciting training sessions for people with disabilities in the Bali area. This training was carried out offline, implementing the health protocols that apply during the pandemic. The first session, which was held on Saturday, June 19, 2021, consisted of a baking class followed by product photography training.

DNetwork believes this baking class is not only fun but also important and useful considering that the culinary sector is one of the potential businesses to thrive during the pandemic. About 30 participants were taught how to make simple pastries filled with cream of various flavors. After the baking class, participants were also given a quick workshop to understand product photography techniques because DNetwork believes that, in any business, including those within the culinary sector, good quality photos will attract more buyers.

The next training session was held on Monday, June 21, 2021. This time, 30 participants were invited to get to know an e-commerce company, JD.ID, which has a commission-based program on its platform. With this program, participants can easily earn a daily income by using their smartphone. After the training from JD.ID, participants were introduced to a business from a sector that also has great potential: coffee. Bringing in experienced baristas from Jumping Stone Coffee & Grill Bali, participants were given an understanding that the coffee business doesn't always have to be expensive. At the same time, participants were also given the opportunity to practice making coffee using the available tools.
In picture: Screenshot of one of the English program sessions initiated by DNetwork, in collaboration with After School English.

 

It is undeniable that currently, English proficiency is one of the most influential factors in getting a decent job. Many companies now do job interviews in English, and even make certain English test scores a requirement for applying for jobs. Therefore, DNetwork – Jaringan Kerja Disabilitas, feel the need to equip job seekers with disabilities with proficient English language skills so that their competence in the job market increases.

With the generous support of the Inspirasia Foundation and the Direct Aid Program initiated by the Australian Consulate General in Bali, DNetwork started intensive English language training for 40 selected participants with disabilities. In fact, this activity was very well received by the disability community and the applicants reached more than 100 people from all over Indonesia. To ensure the effectiveness of learning, participants were screened through a pre-test and grouped according to their disabilities so that they can get the accommodations they need and the way of delivering teaching materials that suit them best. The teachers who are part of the After School English institution, are experienced teachers who are good at adjusting teaching methods and making the learning process fun.

One of the Deaf participants, Josephine Kintan, stated that she was very happy to be selected to join this English program. "This is a great opportunity. Especially with the accommodation in the form of a Sign Language Interpreter in each class. Thank you, DNetwork," she explained. We really hope that after the 16 sessions of this English program, all participants will have improved English skills and more confident when communicating in English.

The Aku Mampu program is supported by: