The Influence Of Farmers Backgrounds Who Switch Professions to New Jobs as Migrant Workers (TKI/TKW)

Abstract

The backgrounds of farmers who switch professions to new jobs as migrant workers (TKI/TKW) are diverse and complex, including economic, social, and other factors. The transition to becoming migrant workers has various impacts, both positive and negative. This change can affect various aspects, including economic, social, and psychological ones. Farmers will face new challenges in adjusting to a new work environment, different cultures, and unstable conditions. The purpose of this study is to identify and understand the various factors that drive farmers to move from the agricultural sector to the non-agricultural sector, particularly to become migrant workers. The method used is a combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies to collect data. Qualitative methodology is used to gather data through in-depth interviews with respondents, while quantitative methodology is used to collect data through questionnaires. The main result is that becoming a migrant worker is not the only option available, but the limited job opportunities make them choose this job. When husbands/wives are faced with the pressure of household needs and responsibilities as heads/mothers of households, they choose to become TKI/TKW to meet daily needs, taking roles as manual laborers or domestic workers with higher wages compared to being a farmer or agricultural laborer. Their income is relatively modest and quite limited, forcing farmers to be willing to stay far from their children and wives for long periods. The destination countries for migrant workers (TKI/TKW) include Malaysia, Brunei, Saudi Arabia, and many others. In conclusion, farmers switch professions to new jobs as migrant workers to meet economic needs and improve the social status of their families. The recommendation is for farmers and agricultural laborers to enhance skills in agriculture, improve human resources (HR), and work harder to achieve maximum results.