Twitter has become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world. Its popularity has extended to Indonesia, where millions of users have embraced its features. One group that has found Twitter particularly useful is Indonesian migrant workers, also known as TKI (Tenaga Kerja Indonesia). In this article, we will explore how Twitter is connecting TKI with the world and how it has become an essential tool for their everyday lives.
Understanding the Lives of TKI
Indonesia has one of the highest rates of international migration in the world, with millions of Indonesians working abroad. Many of these workers are categorized as TKI, who are typically employed in low-skilled jobs in countries such as Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore. The life of a TKI is often challenging, as they have to adapt to new cultures, work long hours, and endure difficult working conditions. They also face the risk of exploitation, abuse, and trafficking.
Despite these challenges, TKI are an essential source of income for many Indonesian families. The money they send home helps support their families and contributes to the country’s economy. However, communication with their loved ones back home can be difficult, as many TKI do not have access to the internet or cannot afford to make phone calls regularly. This is where Twitter comes in.
How Twitter Became Essential for TKI
Twitter has become a lifeline for many TKI, as it provides a way for them to stay connected with their families and friends back home. With the help of their smartphones, TKI can use Twitter to share updates about their lives, communicate with their loved ones, and seek help in times of need. Twitter has also become a source of information for TKI, who use it to access news, job opportunities, and other useful resources.
One of the most significant advantages of Twitter for TKI is its accessibility. Unlike other social media platforms, Twitter can be accessed even with slow internet connections or older smartphones. This is crucial for many TKI who work in remote locations or cannot afford the latest gadgets. Twitter also offers a simple and user-friendly interface, which makes it easy for even non-tech-savvy users to get started.
Another advantage of Twitter is its reach. TKI can use Twitter to connect with people from all over the world, including other TKI, NGOs, and even government agencies. This can be helpful in times of crisis, such as natural disasters or political unrest. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many TKI used Twitter to seek information about the virus, share their experiences, and connect with other TKI who were stranded abroad.
The Challenges of Using Twitter for TKI
While Twitter has many advantages for TKI, there are also some challenges they face when using the platform. One of the main issues is language barriers. Many TKI are not fluent in English, which is the dominant language on Twitter. This can make it difficult for them to communicate with other users, access information, or participate in online conversations. Some TKI have addressed this issue by creating their own hashtags or using translation apps.
Another challenge is the risk of online harassment or scams. TKI can be vulnerable to online abuse, especially if they share personal information or opinions that are controversial. They may also be targeted by scammers who pose as recruiters or offer fake job opportunities. To address this issue, TKI are advised to be cautious about the information they share online and to report any suspicious activity to Twitter.
The Future of Twitter for TKI
Despite the challenges, Twitter continues to be an essential tool for TKI. Its popularity among Indonesian migrant workers is likely to grow in the future, as more people become connected to the internet and smartphones. However, there is still much that can be done to improve the platform’s accessibility and usability for non-English speakers and people with low digital literacy.
One way to address this issue is by providing more language support and translation services. Twitter could also work with NGOs and government agencies to create more targeted resources for TKI, such as job listings or legal advice. By doing so, Twitter can help empower TKI and enable them to make the most of their online presence.
Conclusion
Twitter has become a vital tool for Indonesian migrant workers, providing them with a way to stay connected with their families, access information, and seek help in times of need. While there are some challenges that TKI face when using the platform, Twitter’s accessibility and reach make it an essential lifeline for millions of people. As such, it is crucial that we continue to support and improve the platform to ensure that it meets the diverse needs of its users.
