PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan launched a thematic labor-intensive program and competency-based training to open up job opportunities for residents and reduce the open unemployment rate which reached 7.44 percent in Bandung City (13/4/2026).

The program launch was carried out at Saturnus Park, Rancasari District, as part of the city government's efforts to expand employment opportunities for the community.

Farhan said the unemployment rate in Bandung City is higher than the average for West Java Province, which is at 6.5 percent.

"This means that one of our biggest challenges is providing jobs. This labor-intensive program is a concrete example of the government's efforts to reduce unemployment," said Farhan.

The labor-intensive program gives residents the opportunity to work for 10 days to carry out environmental work in their respective areas.

This activity provides temporary income while also helping to maintain the cleanliness and comfort of the residential environment.

Farhan asked participants to take advantage of this job opportunity by showing their best performance.

"This isn't just a social program. It's a second chance. Show your best work, and who knows, someone might notice you and hire you permanently," said Farhan.

The Bandung City Government also holds competency-based training for people who are unemployed.

This training is aimed primarily at school graduates to equip them with skills that meet industry needs.

"Competition is getting fiercer. Therefore, we must ensure that Bandung residents have the skills needed by industry," said Farhan.

This program is expected to help residents earn income while improving their job skills to be better prepared to compete in the job market.

Farhan also appreciated the support of the Bandung City Regional People's Representative Council, the Bandung City Manpower Office, and regional officials who assisted in implementing the program.

(Bandung City Communications and Information Service/bhf)