The Kepulauan Riau region marks a significant milestone with a drop in the Open Unemployment Rate (TPT), indicating a robust rebound from the pandemic’s economic impact.

The Governor of Kepri, Ansar Ahmad, highlights the region’s successful reduction of the unemployment rate to a figure lower than pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the positive trend in economic and employment recovery.

Kepri’s Open Unemployment Rate has decreased to 6.80% as of August 2023, showcasing a healthier job market compared to the pre-pandemic rate of 7.50% in August 2019.

Data from BPS Kepri shows a 1.43 percentage point decrease from the previous year, positioning Kepri as the second most improved region in Indonesia, following Bali.

Among Kepri’s 1.592 million working-age population, 1.094 million are in the workforce, with 1.019 million employed across various sectors.

Manufacturing emerges as the largest employer, while Financial Services absorb the fewest workers in Kepri’s diverse job market.

While most districts in Kepri report a decline in unemployment, Lingga and the Anambas Islands see a rise, with Batam recording the highest rate at 8.14%.

The decrease in Kepri’s unemployment rate signifies a strengthening economy, potentially leading to enhanced business opportunities and a vibrant market for tourism and investment in the region.

Kepri celebrates a pivotal achievement as the region’s Open Unemployment Rate falls to 6.80%, surpassing pre-pandemic figures and reflecting the ongoing economic recovery. The government’s targeted strategies in investment, tourism, and industrial development are credited for this success, promising increased prosperity and job availability for the citizens of Kepri.

Source : Pos Metro, In Depth News (2023)