Companies struggle to fill positions as local supply falls short of experience requirements

Batam’s manufacturing sector faces a persistent shortage of skilled electrical technicians in 2025, with demand outpacing the availability of qualified local workers.

Shortage of Skilled Workers

The Batam Manpower Office (Disnaker) reported that electrical technician roles remain the most sought-after positions in the city’s manufacturing sector this year. Acting head of Disnaker Batam, Nurul Iswahyuni, said on Wednesday, September 24, that many companies require candidates with at least three years of experience, limiting opportunities for fresh graduates and younger workers.

Preference for Local Talent

Despite the gap, Nurul emphasized that companies remain committed to hiring local workers first. “If the criteria are not met, then they turn to candidates from within the Riau Islands or outside the province,” she explained. This policy aims to prioritize Batam’s workforce while balancing the technical needs of employers.

Recruitment Expands Beyond Batam

The rise of online job portals and digital recruitment channels has made it easier for companies to source talent from outside the region. This shift allows employers to quickly match specific technical requirements, though it also means local workers face stronger competition from external candidates.

Job Market Data

According to Disnaker’s data, as of August 2025, Batam recorded 21,434 job seekers, with demand peaking in May. The figure was nearly balanced between genders, with around 10,000 men and 10,000 women actively seeking work.

Employment and Vacancies

During the same period, 9,197 workers were successfully placed in jobs, while available vacancies totaled 12,585. Disnaker further noted that Batam continues to generate an additional 1,000 to 2,000 new local job openings each month, reflecting the city’s ongoing industrial growth.

Outlook for 2025

While construction-related demand has weakened, the steady need for electrical technicians underscores the manufacturing sector’s reliance on specialized skills. Bridging the skills gap remains a pressing challenge, as companies balance immediate technical demands with long-term workforce development for Batam’s residents.

The shortage of experienced electrical technicians highlights both the opportunities and challenges within Batam’s manufacturing-driven economy. While companies remain eager to prioritize local hires, the gap in skilled labor forces many to look beyond the city. The situation underscores the importance of targeted training programs and skill development to ensure Batam’s workforce can meet the evolving demands of its industrial base.

Sources: Gokepri (2025) , ANTARA News Kepri (2025)

Keywords: Batam, Manufacturing Industry, Electrical Technicians, Job Market, Disnaker, Employment