Jakarta, ThedailyID — PT Bank Mandiri Taspen and PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) Branch Tegal have launched a vocational training program for people with disabilities in Brebes, Central Java. The initiative aims to improve access to skills training and employment opportunities for one of Indonesia’s underserved communities.
The week-long program takes place at the Brebes Islamic Center. Through practical training, the two state-owned companies hope participants can secure formal jobs or build independent businesses.
The initiative responds to ongoing employment challenges for people with disabilities. Statistics Indonesia (BPS) shows their labor force participation remains relatively low. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Manpower placed only 702 people with disabilities through Disability Service Units (ULD) in 2023.
Access to employment support also remains limited. Indonesia currently has ULD offices in 28 of its 38 provinces. At the regency and city level, only 179 of 514 regions operate the service.
As a result, many people with disabilities still struggle to access vocational training and formal employment despite having the necessary skills and potential.
Bank Mandiri Taspen and PNM designed the program to help close that gap. Besides providing vocational training, the companies will also connect graduates with employers looking for skilled workers.
Participants will complete competency-based training before receiving certification. Afterward, Bank Mandiri Taspen and PNM will help match them with footwear manufacturers and other companies seeking sewing operators.
The initiative also supports the Ministry of Manpower’s efforts to strengthen inclusive employment. At the same time, it expands Bank Mandiri Taspen’s workforce development programs, including its collaboration with Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM).
Thirty participants from disability communities in Brebes and nearby areas joined this year’s program. Ruang Amal Indonesia facilitates the training, which focuses on shoe sewing operations.
Head of Bank Mandiri Taspen Pekalongan Branch Agus Suyana said the companies selected the program because Indonesia’s footwear industry continues to need skilled operators, particularly in West Java and Banten.
“Shoe stitching requires specific technical skills but only limited physical movement. That makes it suitable for people with physical and motor disabilities,” Agus said.
“We hope participants can quickly find opportunities with SMEs and manufacturing companies after completing the training.”
PNM Tegal Branch Head Sutanto said inclusive empowerment should reach every segment of society. He added that people with disabilities still face barriers when entering the workforce.
“Everyone has the potential to grow when they receive the right opportunities and support,” Sutanto said. “We hope this program gives participants practical skills, confidence and better opportunities to build independent lives.”
After completing the training, participants will enter a job placement process with footwear manufacturers operating in Brebes.
The initiative also expands PNM’s empowerment programs beyond women entrepreneurs and ultra-micro businesses. Meanwhile, Bank Mandiri Taspen views the program as part of its commitment to creating long-term social impact in its operational areas.
One participant said the training created new opportunities beyond learning technical skills.
“Many of us have felt our job opportunities were limited,” the participant said. “This program gives us new skills and greater confidence that we can work, contribute and support our families.”
Through this collaboration, Bank Mandiri Taspen and PNM reaffirm their commitment to inclusive empowerment. Both companies hope the program will help participants build more independent, productive and sustainable livelihoods.
