Demand for Forklift Operators Rising, Batang Disnaker Sends Residents to Training

BATANG – The need for forklift operators in Batang Regency remains high, in line with the growth of the industrial sector in the region. The Batang Regency Government, through the Manpower Agency (Disnaker), is preparing skilled workers through training and certification programs.

Head of Batang Disnaker Suprapto said his agency has sent 20 participants to undergo Class 2 forklift operator training and certification at the Akualita training institute in Semarang.

“Forklift operators are still needed by companies in Batang, especially to support goods mobility in warehousing and industrial sectors,” he said when met at the Batang Disnaker Office on Friday (3/4/2026).

He explained that although the number required by each company is not very large, almost all industries need forklift operators to support production and goods distribution activities.

According to Suprapto, the training also includes Occupational Health and Safety (K3) understanding as a mandatory standard for operators.

“Forklift operators must have competence and K3 certification to work according to safety standards. Public enthusiasm for this training is quite high — more than 100 people met the requirements. However, the forklift training quota is limited to only 20 participants,” he explained.

The training is being conducted in stages. Yesterday, 6 participants were sent, and more will follow because they must obtain special certification for operating heavy equipment.

“In addition to forklift operators, the overall workforce demand in Batang Regency this year is estimated to reach more than 5,000 people. The sectors that absorb the most workers include the garment industry, K3 and technical fields, as well as the furniture industry such as synthetic rattan, which requires welders, weavers, and carvers,” he said.

Suprapto also urged the public, especially job seekers, to continuously improve their skills and soft skills to compete in the job market.

“Job opportunities will be quite large going forward, especially for male workers. If you don’t prepare yourself, you’ll only end up as a spectator,” he concluded.

Through these various training programs, Batang Disnaker hopes to create competent workers who are ready to be absorbed by the continuously growing industries in the region.