CEO Insights Magazine

It’s no secret that ageism, or discrimination based on age, is a significant issue in Asia, impacting both older and younger populations. More countries are recognizing the need to contain this malicious trend. Recently, Indonesia joined the bandwagon, urging companies to remove age limits in job ads, reflecting growing regulatory scrutiny of discriminatory labor practices in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.

Last week, the Ministry of Manpower issued a directive instructing both domestic and foreign employers to remove age-related restrictions in their recruitment processes, including those affecting individuals with

disabilities. Exceptions are permitted only if age is demonstrably relevant to the role, ensuring that any criteria applied do not unjustly disadvantage applicants. “These restrictions have long contributed to legitimizing unemployment and poverty,” Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer said during a recent interview. He adds, “Employers want comfort, we will deliver that. We will eliminate thuggery and burdensome regulations. But we also ask for cooperation to help our fellow citizens.”

Despite this ongoing problem, it is interesting to note that the demand for hiring in commercial, operational, and technical roles has increased in the country. Indonesian companies are exercising greater caution in adding new staff for essential positions or filling vacancies. However, sectors such as fintech, digital banking, e-commerce, local conglomerates, SME startups, and Web3 companies are experiencing exponential growth, as reflected in the hiring heat map. Additionally, industries like cyber risk and governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) are in high demand due to new local regulations emphasizing technology risk management. In this special issue of CEO Insights Asia, we shed light on some of the leaders navigating these challenges and setting bench marks. Do let us know your thoughts.