ENHANCING READINESS TO CHANGE AND WELL-BEING AMONG INDONESIAN MIGRANT WORKER IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

Indonesian migrant workers in Penang face significant challenges, as many are trapped in low-skilled, low-paying jobs that limit their career advancement opportunities. This lack of readiness to change hinders their pursuit of further education and training, resulting in stagnant skills and reduced employability in better-paying positions. Consequently, this situation often leads to low social mobility and mental health issues due to the stress of being away from home. Improving readiness to change is crucial for these workers, as it facilitates adaptation to new cultural and social environments, enhancing their integration into the local community. It also motivates them to seek further education and training, thereby improving their skills and employability. The concept of readiness to change is derived from the Transtheoretical Model (TTM), which outlines the stages individuals experience when modifying behavior. Understanding an individual's current stage of readiness allows for tailored interventions that promote personal growth. To address these challenges, the proposed community service program aims to enhance the skills and well-being of Indonesian migrant workers, ultimately improving their job productivity. The program will conduct workshops, seminars, and learning sessions aligned with the stages of readiness to change, focusing on positive psychology principles such as fostering positive emotions, building emotional resilience, and enhancing interpersonal skills. Interventions will utilize motivational interviewing techniques to assess individual readiness and provide tailored support. Cognitive-behavioral strategies will encourage participants to reframe negative thoughts and adopt a positive outlook. Practical exercises will assist participants in setting achievable goals and developing action plans for personal and professional growth. In summary, this community service program is designed to enhance the readiness to change among Indonesian migrant workers in Penang, equipping them with the necessary skills and support to navigate their challenges and improve their overall quality of life.