As Indonesia’s capital continues to modernize, it also faces a growing challenge beneath the surface: urban job scarcity. A recent report by The Jakarta Post (2025) revealed that thousands of Jakartans are now rushing to join the city’s public sanitation team—known as the “Orange Troops”—amid dwindling employment opportunities in the private sector.
The surge of applicants hoping to secure these physically demanding yet stable jobs reflects a deeper reality in Jakarta: while skyscrapers rise and the economy diversifies, many citizens are still navigating uncertain livelihoods and limited options.
For expats, property buyers, and long-term residents, this isn’t just a headline—it’s a reminder of the complex ecosystem behind the city’s energy and growth.
Who Are the Orange Troops?
The “Orange Troops” (Pasukan Oranye) are Jakarta’s sanitation workers. Dressed in bright orange uniforms, they clean the streets, clear drains, and help maintain public cleanliness. For years, they’ve been a vital part of Jakarta’s public service system—often underrecognized, yet essential.
This year, according to The Jakarta Post, over 11,000 residents applied for just 3,000 available positions. Many of them are unemployed youth, recent graduates, or laid-off workers from informal sectors like retail and construction.
While the job is known to be physically intense and offers modest pay, it includes social security, healthcare benefits, and the dignity of a stable routine—making it increasingly attractive in a tight labor market (The Jakarta Post, 2025).
What Does This Reveal About Jakarta’s Workforce?
Jakarta is the economic heart of Indonesia, but job creation hasn’t always kept up with population growth and migration. Informal employment still dominates many sectors, and automation, combined with post-pandemic shifts, has made low- to mid-skilled jobs harder to secure.
This growing interest in government jobs—whether as Orange Troops or other civil service roles—highlights:
- A shrinking formal job market for certain segments of the population
- The appeal of job security over income potential
- Gaps in vocational education and job matching
- The importance of social protection programs
It also brings attention to the fact that, in a city where luxury apartments and international schools are booming, there are still thousands seeking basic employment stability.
Why This Matters for Expats and Property Investors
At Noble Properties Asia, we believe real estate decisions don’t exist in a vacuum—they’re tied to the broader social, economic, and human fabric of a place. For clients relocating to or investing in Jakarta, understanding the context of daily life beyond the gated communities is vital.
Here’s why this story matters:
- Appreciating the Workers Who Support the City
From the Orange Troops to waste collectors and traffic guides, Jakarta is held together by essential public workers. Their presence keeps neighborhoods livable, especially in busy areas like Menteng, Kemang, and SCBD.
- Socioeconomic Balance Influences Urban Development
Areas with rising income disparity can face tension, overcrowding, and unpredictable shifts in housing needs. For developers and landlords, this means factoring in long-term urban resilience and inclusivity when choosing investment locations.
- Growing Demand for Community-Conscious Housing
There is a rising trend, even among expats, to support neighborhoods that feel more connected and socially balanced. This includes interest in properties that support local employment, use eco-conscious maintenance teams, or participate in community projects.
A City of Contrasts—and Possibilities
Jakarta continues to evolve rapidly. On one end, there’s a growing digital economy, expanding infrastructure, and increasing international appeal. On the other, stories like the surge in Orange Troop applicants remind us that true urban progress must include everyone.
Supporting Jakarta means not only enjoying its opportunities, but also acknowledging the challenges its residents face.
Looking for a property in Jakarta that aligns with your values and lifestyle?
Noble Properties Asia helps global citizens find homes that reflect urban insight, long-term stability, and ethical awareness. Explore our curated listings at noblepropertiesasia.com
Source:
The Jakarta Post. (2025, May 4). Jakartans rush to join Orange Troops amid job scarcity. Retrieved from https://www.thejakartapost.com/indonesia/2025/05/04/jakartans-rush-to-join-orange-troops-amid-job-scarcity.html
