Inside Indonesia’s youth exodus: The truth behind #KaburAjaDulu and what it means for the nation’s future.

One evening in early 2025, Fajar, a 24-year-old software engineer from Surabaya, sat in a dimly lit café, scrolling through job listings in Singapore. Despite graduating at the top of his class, his salary barely covered his living expenses, let alone his dream of owning a home. Frustrated, he posted a tweet with the hashtag #KaburAjaDulu—loosely translated as “just run away first.” Within hours, his post joined thousands of others echoing the same sentiment.

While Fajar’s story is just one example, it reflects a larger reality faced by many young Indonesians grappling with economic uncertainty and limited opportunities.

This viral hashtag has ignited a nationwide debate, highlighting the growing aspirations of young Indonesians to seek better opportunities abroad—whether for education, employment, or an overall improved quality of life. The popularity of #KaburAjaDulu reflects not only frustration with Indonesia’s socio-economic conditions but also a deep-seated hope for a brighter future.

The Rise of #KaburAjaDulu: A Generation’s Frustration

The #KaburAjaDulu trend gained traction in early 2025, fueled by a perfect storm of economic challenges—government budget cuts impacting education, rising concerns over stagnant wages, and a shrinking job market. Data from social media analysis reveals that the hashtag is most actively used by Indonesians aged 19-29, with even younger participants (under 18) engaging in discussions about their bleak future prospects.

Despite holding degrees, many graduates face limited job opportunities and unfair wages, pushing them to consider opportunities abroad. Indonesia’s median graduate salary currently sits at IDR 5 million (approximately SGD 430)—a fraction of what professionals earn in neighboring countries. For many, the idea of “escaping” is not about abandoning their homeland but about breaking free from a system that stifles their potential.

#KaburAjaDulu: A Smart Move or a Risky Gamble?

The prospect of leaving Indonesia for greener pastures presents both compelling benefits and significant drawbacks.

The Upsides of Leaving:

• Higher Earning Potential – Countries with stronger economies offer better salaries, career progression, and work-life balance. In Singapore, for example, entry-level engineers earn SGD 3,800 (~IDR 44 million)—nearly nine times more than in Indonesia.

• Quality Education – Studying abroad provides access to world-class institutions, cutting-edge research, and global networks that Indonesian universities may lack.

• Improved Quality of Life – Better infrastructure, healthcare, and social support systems in developed countries make the transition appealing.

• Booming Green Job Market – The shift towards renewable energy has created a surge in demand for skilled professionals. Major hubs like China, the EU, Brazil, and the U.S. are aggressively hiring experts in solar energy, wind technology, and climate policy.

The Hidden Costs of Leaving:

• High Financial and Bureaucratic Barriers – Relocating comes with steep costs—visa fees, airfare, and housing deposits. The average student visa process alone can exceed IDR 50 million (approximately SGD 4,300).
• Legal Risks – Non-procedural migration is a growing concern. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports that many Indonesians caught in immigration violations end up stranded abroad with little recourse.
• Cultural and Social Challenges – Adapting to a new country means facing language barriers, workplace discrimination, and potential homesickness.
• The Brain Drain Dilemma – The departure of Indonesia’s top talent weakens domestic industries, creating a cycle where fewer skilled workers remain to drive innovation and progress at home.

Where Are Indonesians Going?

While #KaburAjaDulu has a global outlook, certain destinations are emerging as hotspots for Indonesian migrants:

• China – A rising giant in renewable energy, offering vast career opportunities.

• Germany, Netherlands, Denmark – Leading clean energy hubs, attracting skilled professionals in sustainability and engineering.

• United States – Strong demand for specialists in wind energy, solar installations, and environmental policy.

• Taiwan – Despite cultural adjustments, many Indonesians thrive in its fast-growing job market.

Public opinion on the #KaburAjaDulu trend remains divided. While some see it as a pragmatic response to economic stagnation, others criticize it as unpatriotic. The debate underscores the urgent need for systemic reform—a call for Indonesia’s policymakers to create an environment that retains its brightest minds.

A Movement Fueled by Digital Communities

The rise of #KaburAjaDulu is not just about individuals leaving; it’s about shared experiences, information exchange, and community support:

• Social Media Networks – Platforms like TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook are flooded with tips on visas, job applications, and adjusting to life abroad.
• Support Groups – Online communities provide real-time assistance to Indonesians navigating new cultures, careers, and legal systems.
• Inspiration & Motivation – Success stories of those who “made it” abroad inspire others to take the leap.

The Bigger Picture: What Indonesia Must Do Next

The #KaburAjaDulu phenomenon is a wake-up call. If Indonesia wants to curb the exodus of talent, it must:

• Reform education and workforce policies to align with global standards.
• Improve job quality by increasing wages and ensuring fair employment practices.
• Invest in innovation to create local opportunities that match those abroad.
• Encourage international collaboration that allows Indonesians to gain global exposure without permanently leaving.

The question isn’t whether young Indonesians should leave—but why they feel they have to. This isn’t just about patriotism; it’s about creating a nation where opportunity, prosperity, and growth are within reach for everyone.

Until then, #KaburAjaDulu will remain more than just a hashtag—it’s a movement, a statement, and, for many, a necessary reality.

For those looking to train for the real #KaburAjaDulu, BatamOn Asia offers a strategic stepping stone. Just 45 minutes from Singapore, BatamOn Asia is a global-ready co-working hub connecting Indonesian talent with Singaporean and regional companies. From talent sourcing and outsourcing to professional upskilling, it’s an affordable, high-impact gateway to international work experience—without leaving home.

Why go far when the future is just across the shore?

Sources:
[1] Ketika Tren #KaburAjaDulu Viral hingga Disebut Tak Nasionalis
[2] #KaburAjaDulu: How Indonesia’s Viral Trend Aligns with Global Green Job Opportunities
[3] #KaburAjaDulu: Beyond full stomachs, toward full lives
[4] Trending! The Hashtag #KaburAjaDulu Goes Viral on Social Media – Here’s Why
[5] Share pengalaman kalian #KaburAjaDulu dong