Jakarta Manpower, Transmigration, and Energy Agency is holding the 2026 Jakarta Career & Independent Workforce Expo, themed Optimistic in Opening Access, Building Careers.

The hybrid event enables job hunters to attend virtually via the Karir Jakarta portal at karir.jakarta.go.id, open from October 8 to 29, 2026.

On-site, the expo hosts 65 local employers alongside 10 international recruiting firms offering overseas opportunities. The fair will take place on October 22 and 23 at the SMESCO Convention Hall on the second floor in Pancoran, South Jakarta.

Jakarta Manpower, Transmigration, and Energy Agency Head Syaripudin noted that the capital's Open Unemployment Rate fell from 6.03 percent in February 2026 to 5.79 percent in May 2026—a decrease of 0.24 percentage points.

However, Jakarta BPS data shows that unemployment remains a challenge, with around 323,660 people still without work, calling for continuous, targeted interventions across the city.

In response, the Jakarta administration is stepping up its JAKARTA BEKERJA (Jakarta Works) program under the 2025–2029 Regional Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMD) framework. The program underscores the city's ongoing efforts to broaden employment access and lower unemployment rates across the capital.

Syaripudin emphasized that the program aims to enhance the quality and reach of labor services, prioritizing low-income households, vulnerable demographics, and people with disabilities to foster equal access to employment.

"To turn JAKARTA BEKERJA into concrete action, the agency is organizing the 2026 Jakarta Career & TKM Expo, bringing 12,000 job openings to job seekers," he expressed, Tuesday (10/20).

He went on to say that the expo serves to connect job seekers with local and international vacancies, boost workforce skills and competitiveness, and encourage youth self-reliance.

It also streamlines hiring for employers by matching them with suitable talent.

“Whether they are fresh graduates, job seekers with disabilities, or general applicants, candidates can engage directly with recruiters, submit applications, and undergo on-the-spot interviews, ensuring a faster and more targeted hiring process,” he continued.

Beyond job listings, the expo offers several side events and resources:

• Vocational Training Information: Information booths hosted by Jakarta's Regional Job Training Centers (PPKD);

• Talk Shows & Discussions: Sessions with industry experts on modern employment trends, entrepreneurship, and working abroad;

• Entrepreneurship Showcase: Displays highlighting small businesses fostered through the city's Independent Workforce (TKM) program.

Aside that, the agency is actively running broader employment initiatives, such as competency training programs, entrepreneurship empowerment schemes, and internship opportunities for high school and vocational graduates.

“Hopefully, these efforts enable local residents to land decent jobs at home and overseas, ultimately reducing unemployment, enhancing regional productivity, and sustaining economic growth,” he closed.