Brunei Darussalam, a small country located on the island of Borneo, has been a popular destination for Indonesian migrant workers for years. Many Indonesians work in Brunei as domestic helpers, construction laborers, or factory workers.
If you are planning to work in Brunei as a migrant worker, one of the most important factors to consider is the salary or gaji. In this article, we will explore the average salary of TKI (Tenaga Kerja Indonesia) or Indonesian migrant workers in Brunei for the year 2021.
Overview of TKI in Brunei
According to the Indonesian government, there are approximately 25,000 Indonesian migrant workers in Brunei as of 2021. The majority of these workers are employed in the domestic sector, followed by the construction and manufacturing sectors. Indonesian migrant workers in Brunei are often referred to as TKI Brunei or TKI BD (Brunei Darussalam).
Minimum Wage in Brunei
Like many other countries, Brunei has a minimum wage policy. The minimum wage for foreign workers in Brunei is set by the government and varies depending on the sector and job type. The current minimum wage for foreign workers in the domestic sector is BND 400 (approximately IDR 4,300,000) per month, while the minimum wage for foreign workers in the construction sector is BND 700 (approximately IDR 7,500,000) per month.
Average Salary of TKI in Brunei
The average salary of TKI in Brunei varies depending on the sector and job type. According to data from the Indonesian government, the average salary of TKI in the domestic sector is around BND 450-500 (approximately IDR 4,800,000-5,400,000) per month, while the average salary in the construction sector ranges from BND 800-1,200 (approximately IDR 8,600,000-12,900,000) per month.
It is important to note that these figures are just averages and actual salaries may vary depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, and negotiation skills.
Factors Affecting TKI Salaries in Brunei
Several factors can affect TKI salaries in Brunei, such as:
- Experience and qualifications – Those with more experience and higher qualifications may be able to command higher salaries.
- Negotiation skills – Workers who are good at negotiating may be able to secure higher salaries than those who are not.
- Employer – The employer’s financial capacity and willingness to pay also play a role in determining the worker’s salary.
- Location – Workers in certain locations may be paid more due to higher living costs or demand for their skills.
Other Benefits and Allowances
In addition to the salary, TKI in Brunei may also be entitled to other benefits and allowances such as:
- Accommodation – Some employers provide free or subsidized accommodation for their workers.
- Food and transportation – Employers may also provide free or subsidized meals and transportation for their workers.
- Medical insurance – Employers are required by law to provide medical insurance for their workers.
- Annual leave – Workers are entitled to paid annual leave based on their length of service.
Challenges Faced by TKI in Brunei
Working as a migrant worker in a foreign country can be challenging, and TKI in Brunei are no exception. Some of the challenges faced by TKI in Brunei include:
- Language barrier – Many Indonesian workers in Brunei may not be fluent in English or Malay, which can make it difficult to communicate with their employers and co-workers.
- Isolation – Some workers may feel isolated and homesick, especially if they are far away from their families and support networks.
- Exploitation – Unfortunately, some employers may exploit their workers by paying them below minimum wage or withholding their salaries.
- Cultural differences – Workers may also experience culture shock and struggle to adapt to the cultural norms and practices in Brunei.
Conclusion
Working as a TKI in Brunei can be a rewarding experience that offers opportunities for personal growth and financial stability. However, it is important to be aware of the salary and benefits offered by employers and to negotiate for fair compensation. By understanding the factors that affect TKI salaries in Brunei and the challenges that come with working abroad, Indonesian migrant workers can make informed decisions and ensure that their rights are protected.
