Minimum Wage in Malta vs Indonesia 2025: Salary Comparison, Cost of Living & Opportunities

When Indonesians think about working abroad, the first question is often: “How much can I earn compared to working in Indonesia?” Salary is a big factor, but it’s not the only one. Beyond the numbers, people also look at lifestyle, career growth, and opportunities for the future.

In this blog, we’ll compare the minimum wage in Indonesia vs. Malta, a small European Union country that has recently become popular among international workers, including Indonesians.

What Is Minimum Wage?

The minimum wage is the legally mandated lowest salary that employers must pay their workers.

• Indonesia: Minimum wages are set regionally. Each province or district decides its own rate. That’s why salaries in Jakarta are much higher than in Central Java or Sulawesi.
  

• Malta: The minimum wage is standardized nationally. Everyone, no matter where they live in Malta, earns the same baseline salary.

This creates two very different systems, Indonesia’s decentralized model vs. Malta’s single national rate.

Minimum Wage in Indonesia (2025)

Wages in Indonesia vary widely:

• Central Java: IDR 2.17 million (~USD 135)

• Jakarta: IDR 5.40 million (~USD 337)

Jakarta offers the highest wages, reflecting its role as the economic hub. However, outside major cities, salaries can be much lower, sometimes less than half of Jakarta’s.

Source: ASEAN Briefing – Indonesia’s Minimum Wage Rates for 2025

Minimum Wage in Malta (2025)

In Malta, the minimum wage applies to the whole country:

• Hourly Rate: €5.54

• Weekly Rate: €221.78

• Monthly Rate: ~€887 (~USD 950) for full-time workers aged 18+

That’s almost three times higher than Jakarta’s minimum wage, and up to seven times higher than Central Java’s.

Source: Government of Malta – National Minimum Wage

Side-by-Side Comparison

Why Can Malta Be Attractive for Indonesians?

At first glance, the salary difference looks huge. But it’s important to remember that Malta’s cost of living is higher. Rent, food, and transportation all cost more than in Indonesia. Still, there are reasons why Malta is catching the attention of young Indonesians:

1. Earning in Euros
   Even if expenses are higher, saving in euros has long-term benefits. It’s a stronger currency compared to the rupiah, and it can open opportunities to work in other EU countries later.
   
   

2. A Career Starting Point
   For Indonesians just beginning their career, Malta offers not only better pay but also the chance to work in an international, English-speaking environment. That experience is highly valuable if you want to grow professionally or move into other global markets.
   
   

3. Lifestyle and Community
   Indonesians value community, togetherness, and hospitality. Interestingly, Malta offers something similar. It has a strong expat community, friendly locals, and a culture where people enjoy life outdoors, sharing food, festivals, and traditions. Many Indonesians find it easier to adapt compared to larger, more individualistic countries.
   
   

4. Gateway to Europe
   Since Malta is part of the European Union, working there can become a stepping stone to other opportunities across Europe. For Indonesians who dream of living abroad, Malta is one of the more accessible paths.
   

Conclusion

For Indonesians, comparing minimum wages shows a clear difference: Malta offers salaries up to 7x higher than some provinces in Indonesia. But beyond the numbers, the real attraction lies in the experience of working abroad, earning in euros, living in a safe and sunny country, and being part of a welcoming international community.

Yes, Malta is more expensive, but for someone starting their career, the benefits can outweigh the costs. You gain global exposure, professional growth, and a lifestyle that balances work with Mediterranean beauty.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about how much you earn, it’s about the opportunities that come with it. And Malta is quickly becoming one of the most appealing destinations for Indonesians looking to take that next step.

Your future in Europe starts with one decision. Let Skills Pass Malta support you with the right training, job placement, and visa guidance so you can build your career in Malta.