Indonesia Ranks First for Happiest Workers in Asia Pacific, According to New Survey on Salary and Workplace Satisfaction

Indonesia has emerged as the country with the happiest workers in the Asia Pacific region, outperforming several developed economies including Singapore and Australia.

The ranking is based on the latest Workplace Happiness Index released by Jobstreet by SEEK, highlighting the growing importance of employee happiness beyond salary alone.

As work environment continue to evolve, employee satisfaction has become a key indicator of organisational sustainability. Companies across the region are increasingly recognising that happiness at work influences productivity, retention, and long-term performance, making independent research critical in assessing labour market conditions.

Indonesia Leads the Region in Happiest Workers

According to the report, Indonesia recorded the highest workplace happiness score in the Asia Pacific region. The findings are based on an online survey conducted by research institute Nature between October and November 2025.

The methodology involving approximately 1,000 respondents aged 18 to 64 across the Indonesian labour market.

The survey found that 82% of Indonesian respondents described themselves as quite happy to very happy at work. This figure significantly exceeds results from other countries in the region, including Hong Kong (47%), Singapore (56%), and Australia (57%).

In addition, 86% of Indonesian workers said they feel appreciated in their workplace, while 75% reported that their jobs provide inner satisfaction or a sense of fulfilment.

Happiness Besides Salary: What Matters Most to Workers

While salary remains an important consideration, the survey indicates that workplace happiness is influenced by a broader set of factors. Although 54% of respondents still prioritise higher pay, the strongest drivers of happiness relate to better work-life balance and a sense of purpose.

Key factors contributing to happiness among Indonesian workers include:

• Positive relationships with colleagues or teams (77%)
• Workplace location (76%)
• Job satisfaction or feeling that work has meaning (75%)

Wisnu Dharmawan, Acting Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Indonesia, said competitive salaries remain average for attracting talent. However, he emphasised that long-term happiness depends on deeper factors.

“Company leaders have a crucial role to play in bridging this gap by establishing open communication and transparently recognising each individual’s achievements,” Wisnu said, as reported by Kontan on Tuesday (February 3, 2026).

Challenges Behind Workplace Happiness

Despite the strong overall results, the report highlights several concerns. As reported by Kompas.com on Tuesday (February 3, 2026), 44% of workers still experience stress, while 56% feel burdened by work demands. Senior leadership was identified as the third-largest contributor to workplace unhappiness, cited by 64% of respondents.

Younger workers also face particular challenges. Generation Z recorded the lowest happiness level at 76 %, with many reporting feelings of underappreciation and difficulty connecting working hours and daily tasks to a broader purpose.

Industry and Regional Differences in Worker Happiness

The survey shows statistics that happiness levels vary significantly across industries and regions. The technology sector recorded the highest happiness score at 93%, driven by workplace pride and clarity of purpose.

Regionally, Greater Jakarta (Jabodetabek) emerged as the happiest area for workers, with an 87% happiness rate. In contrast, the Western Region of Indonesia recorded the lowest score at 75%, largely due to disparities in income levels and access to workplace facilities.

@insidefolkative Indonesia menduduki peringkat pertama sebagai negara dengan pekerja paling bahagia di kawasan Asia-Pasifik. Pencapaian ini berdasarkan laporan eksklusif terbaru dari Indeks Kebahagiaan Tempat Kerja yang dirilis oleh Jobstreet by SEEK. Laporan tersebut disusun dari survei online yang dilakukan oleh lembaga riset Nature pada Oktober-November 2025 yang melibatkan sekitar 1.000 responden di pasar tenaga kerja Indonesia, berusia antara 18 dan 64 tahun. Hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa 82% responden di Indonesia melaporkan merasa cukup bahagia hingga sangat bahagia di tempat kerja. Angka ini jauh melampaui negara-negara lain di kawasan ini, seperti Hong Kong (47%), Singapura (56%), dan Australia (57%). Gimana menurut kalian?😇😇😇 #fyp #promomakanharian #bahagia #indonesia ♬ suara asli – moonucs – yusi

AI, Burnout, and the Future of Workplace Happiness

Behind the positive headline figures, concerns remain about burnout and technological disruption. The report found that 42% of workers fear that artificial intelligence (AI) could threaten their job security, particularly within the technology sector.

Meanwhile, 43% of respondents reported feeling mentally exhausted by workload or burnt out, including 40% of workers who otherwise described themselves as happy.

“Indonesia’s achievement as a leader in workplace happiness in the Asia Pacific reflects the country’s strong optimism and positive culture. However, companies must not become complacent. The 43% burnout rate and concerns about AI are a wake-up call for employers to act proactively,” Wisnu said.

Methodology and Key Recommendations

Methodology

The Workplace Happiness Index was compiled through an online survey of approximately 1,000 Indonesian workers aged 18–64, conducted between October and November 2025.

Recommendations for Employers

Jobstreet by SEEK encourages organisations to focus on three key strategies:

• Building meaningful work at every employee level
• Supporting personal boundaries through flexible working arrangements: hybrid or remote work
• Listening to the distinct needs of different generations
• Effective communication and inclusive leadership remain critical to ensuring that employees not only remain in their roles but thrive throughout their careers.

Cover: Photo by Startup Stock/Pexels