The hashtag KaburAjaDulu (literally “Just Escape First”) went viral on Indonesian social media in February 2025, especially on social media platform X. Quoting kompas.com, the #KaburAjaDulu trend was used as a form of desire for Indonesian citizens to leave Indonesia to work or continue their studies abroad. Through this hashtag, netizens invited young people to take the opportunity to study, work, or even just live abroad.
Background of The Hashtag #KaburAjaDulu
The hashtag “Kabur Aja Dulu” has become a medium for netizens on social media to share information about job vacancies, scholarships, and opportunities for careers abroad. Not only that, #KaburAjaDulu has also become a forum for discussion about social and economic pressures, including an unfavorable work environment and unhealthy personal relationships.
#KaburAjaDulu emerged in response to the social and economic situation in the country, starting from the difficulty of the younger generation in finding jobs according to their expectations and qualifications; the high unemployment rate, especially among fresh graduates; the cost of living is swelling, while salary increases are stagnant; budget efficiency is considered to be sacrificing the quality of public services, especially education; the poverty gap; and the rampant corruption.
The Meaning Behind the Hashtag “Kabur Aja Dulu”
Apart from the surrounding socio-political issues, the #KaburAjaDulu (Just Run Away First) illustrates the shift in mindset of the younger generation who see global career prospects as a solution to domestic social and economic challenges. In this regard, as quoted by cnnindonesia.com, a YouGov survey revealed that 41 percent of Generation Z (born 1997-2009) have wanted to or are considering moving abroad. This number is higher than the desire to move abroad in other generations such as millennials (1981-1996) 32 percent, Gen X (1965-1980) 26 percent, especially Baby Boomers (1946-1964) 12 percent.
The survey also revealed that not all generations have the same view of the future in Indonesia. Gen X is listed as the most optimistic group. A total of 40 percent of Gen X respondents are confident in the country’s ability. In contrast, Gen Z has the highest level of pessimism, at 37 percent.
So, what are the reasons why working abroad is an option?
The main factors are of course salary and welfare. Countries such as Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, and European countries offer more lucrative salaries, even for equivalent positions. Not to mention health facilities and work equipment which are on average better than in Indonesia. The next reason is related to global exposure and experience. Working abroad can boost an employee’s competitiveness and bargaining position in the labor market.
Another reason is that many countries value competence more, not seniority, let alone closeness to insiders. For competitive professionals, this condition is certainly very conducive. Wanting to build an extensive network from various nations is also a reason for some people to work abroad. Thus, opportunities for self-development are also more open. Another reason that is often cited is the more flexible leave policy and more humane working hours. This is especially common in European countries.
Considerations Before #KaburAjaDulu
Although it promises greater prosperity, there are a number of challenges that must be faced after deciding to work abroad.
1. Strict regulations
Regulations that need to be considered include visa processing and work permit applications. Not to mention the growing sentiment of nationalism in various countries, such as the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, and France. They prefer to recruit workers from their own countries rather than from other countries.
2. Cultural and language factors
The culture and language of other countries are certainly different from one’s own country. The same goes for work styles. In Japan, for example. In that country, the people uphold punctuality, while in Indonesia being a few minutes late is still considered normal. This of course requires adjustments, which are often not easy.
3. Cost of living
The salary received by employees working abroad is indeed higher. However, the cost of living, such as housing rent and food prices, is high.
Preparing to Work Abroad
If you really want to follow the #KaburAjaDulu trend, prospective employees must keep various things in mind.
First, determine the desired country and industry. Each country has its own advantages and disadvantages. The same goes for the career opportunities offered. Choose carefully.
Second, make sure you have sufficient skills and knowledge. This is arguably the most important factor when deciding to work abroad.
Third, you must be good at speaking a foreign language, of course according to the country you are going to. The aim is to make it easier for you to work and communicate with the local population.
Fourth, prepare the necessary documents.
Fifth, become a member of a professional community on LinkedIn or international labor forums. This makes it easier for prospective employees to access job opportunities abroad.
Sixth, often prospective employees cannot immediately find a permanent job. If so, prospective employees can consider an internship program or get a scholarship.
This way, the opportunity to gain work experience abroad can be more open.
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