In recent months, the viral hashtag #KaburAjaDulu has sparked a wave of interest among Indonesians seeking job opportunities abroad—often with only basic skills. This trend, which translates roughly to “Just Escape First,” may appear tempting, especially for those struggling to find work locally. Among the popular destinations is Cambodia, a country seen by many as a gateway to overseas employment for low-skilled workers. However, behind the glamour of quick money lies a dangerous reality that many fail to see until it’s too late.
Cambodia: A Risky Destination Masquerading as Opportunity
Cambodia, a constitutional monarchy in Southeast Asia, is a developing country with a GDP per capita of only $2.50 per day—equivalent to around Rp 45,000. Despite being less developed than Indonesia, Cambodia continues to attract foreign workers. But before considering a job offer there, one must take a deeper look into the darker side of working in this country.
Wages and Working Conditions: A Risky Gamble
Workers in Cambodia often face unclear labor regulations. Unlike countries with strong labor laws, Cambodia lacks strict rules on holidays, leave, or even fair bonuses. It is not uncommon for employees to work for years without any formal days off.
Even worse, wage deductions are frequently made arbitrarily and without justification. If you try to report unfair treatment, your complaints may fall on deaf ears, as the legal system offers little protection for workers—especially foreigners.
Weak Worker Protection and Limited Embassy Support
Unlike countries like Japan, Saudi Arabia, or Malaysia where the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) is proactive in protecting citizens, Cambodia presents a different challenge. The high number of undocumented Indonesian workers often overwhelms the KBRI in Phnom Penh. Some Indonesians have even been tricked by individuals impersonating embassy officials who demand payment for “assistance,” even though the KBRI never charges for such services.
The official Instagram page of KBRI Phnom Penh has issued repeated warnings about these scams, advising Indonesian citizens to be extremely cautious. This alone should be a red flag for anyone considering relocating to Cambodia for work.
A Hotbed for Online Gambling and Organized Crime
Cambodia has gained notoriety as a hub for illegal online gambling operations and scam companies across Asia. In fact, the Chinese film No More Bets was inspired by real cases from Cambodia. Despite government raids and crackdowns, scam operations and trafficking rings continue to thrive.
According to Criminality in Cambodia (2023), crime increased by 6.85% compared to 2021. The most common crimes include human trafficking, cyber scams, and drug distribution. With the rise in such activities, foreign workers are at risk of being unknowingly involved in criminal enterprises or, worse, becoming victims themselves.
Fake Job Offers and the Struggle to Return Home
Many job seekers are lured by fake job ads online, often promising food service positions. Once in Cambodia, however, they are forced into roles within scam call centers or gambling operations, often under coercion or threat. Some report psychological trauma or even physical abuse.
Because of the growing number of Indonesian victims, immigration officers have begun to scrutinize applications for passports or extensions from those with prior travel to Cambodia. Your name may be marked, making it more difficult to leave the country legally in the future.
Final Reminder: Think Smart Before You Leap
While there may be success stories of those who worked safely in Cambodia, these are exceptions, not the rule. Too many Indonesians have fallen victim to job scams, trafficking, and abuse, and some have never returned home.
If you are offered a job that seems too good to be true—high pay with low effort, vague job descriptions, or suspicious recruiters—trust your instincts. These may be traps.
🔴 Public Warning:
The risks of working in Cambodia, especially through unverified channels, far outweigh the potential benefits. Your safety, freedom, and dignity should never be exchanged for an uncertain paycheck. It is strongly advised to seek employment through official, government-approved programs or in countries with better worker protections.
Rather than chasing illusions, let us aim for work opportunities that offer security, legality, and respect—because no amount of money is worth the cost of your life.
