The Made In Indonesia program is a groundbreaking initiative designed to transform the digital landscape for former migrant workers and their communities. With Indonesia’s internet penetration reaching 66.5% in 2024, this program ensures that returnees and underserved populations do not remain passive consumers but become active contributors to the digital economy.

Focusing on three core objectives—enhancing digital security awareness, fostering economic empowerment through online business training, and equipping individuals with content creation skills, the program empowers participants to take control of their digital futures. By leveraging technology, they can secure their online presence, build sustainable businesses, and amplify their voices in an increasingly connected world.

Implemented across 12 key intervention areas, Made In Indonesia directly engages over 414 training participants and impacts 1711 community members. Training modules cover fundamental internet security, digital marketing for MSMEs, and Freedom of Expression on the Internet. Supported by Migrant CARE, ISOC Foundation, the Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs of Indonesia, and local governments, this initiative promotes lasting digital inclusion and economic resilience.

To further drive awareness, the program has produced three compelling documentaries that spotlight the digital challenges faced by former migrant workers in Indonesia. By bridging the digital divide, Made In Indonesia cultivates a generation of digitally literate, economically empowered individuals ready to shape the future of Indonesia’s digital economy.

https://ictwatch.id/v2/made-in-indonesia/

• Indonesia

• Youth
• Older persons
• Women
• The unemployed
• Remote and rural communities
• former migrant workers

The Made In Indonesia program is highly replicable in regions with high numbers of migrant workers, particularly in Southeast Asia and other developing countries facing similar challenges. Its modular approach allows adaptation to various socio-economic contexts, ensuring scalability. By partnering with local governments, NGOs, and digital literacy advocates, the program can be implemented in both rural and urban settings where former migrant workers and their communities need better access to digital education and economic empowerment. Key factors for replication include collaboration with grassroots organizations, digital infrastructure support, and tailored training that aligns with local needs.

However, several challenges must be addressed for successful implementation. Digital security threats, such as financial fraud and online scams, pose significant risks to vulnerable communities. Additionally, migrant workers often face restricted freedom of expression online, limiting their ability to advocate for their rights. While digital platforms offer opportunities for economic growth, many returning migrant workers struggle to develop businesses in their hometowns due to limited digital marketing skills. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes awareness campaigns, policy advocacy, and skill-building programs tailored to the needs of former migrant workers.

All materials provided in this program are freely accessible to anyone at s.id/madeinindonesia and are living documents that will be continuously updated. Additionally, we have produced a three-part documentary series that can be used to promote digital literacy, particularly focusing on digital security awareness.

The Made in Indonesia program ensures long-term sustainability through an integrated approach. Open-access training materials and documentary resources enable continuous learning beyond initial implementation. Strong collaborations with local governments, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders help integrate digital literacy into ongoing community programs.

A key strategy is a dedicated WhatsApp group connecting participants with trainers. This platform supports ongoing discussions, mentorship, and knowledge sharing, ensuring access to guidance and up-to-date information. By maintaining this digital support system, participants can enhance their skills, exchange experiences, and find solutions to emerging challenges, reinforcing engagement and impact.

To further sustain the program, we link beneficiary groups with local governments to access resources, support, and opportunities for long-term development. Strengthening local CSO networks fosters a collaborative ecosystem that sustains digital literacy efforts.

Additionally, initiatives like the Internet Sehat Forum and Warung BEJO Ramadhan provide accessible training and discussions to continuously enhance digital skills. These platforms keep participants informed about digital trends while supporting former migrant workers, MSME owners, and community trainers in expanding their businesses and online presence.

Collaboration with private sector partners plays a crucial role in broadening impact. We have explored initiatives with TikTok and Meta to expand digital literacy efforts, ensuring greater access for former migrant workers and MSMEs. Discussions with Traveloka focus on enhancing digital opportunities for community-based tourism in rural areas.

Ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and follow-ups ensure the program evolves to address future digital challenges, creating lasting benefits for former migrant workers and their communities.

The Made In Indonesia program actively promotes WSIS values by fostering inclusive digital participation, empowering marginalized communities, and enhancing digital security. Through structured training in digital literacy, digital safety, and digital marketing, the program ensures that former migrant workers can harness ICT for sustainable economic development. By providing free, open-access learning materials and prioritizing gender equality to ensure women's participation in ICT, the initiative strengthens WSIS’s commitment to inclusive digital transformation and empowerment.