Retaining Workers in Seaweed Farming: Employee Engagement & Safety’s Role

This study investigates the relationship between employee engagement and workplace safety on worker retention in the seaweed farming industry of South Sulawesi, Indonesia, while controlling for education level, age, and experience in seaweed farming. The objective is to identify key factors that influence retention in this critical sector of the blue economy, which faces challenges related to informal HR practices and high turnover rates. A sample of 207 respondents was collected through a structured survey, and the data were analysed using multiple regression analysis. The results reveal a significant but negative relationship between employee engagement and worker retention, suggesting that other factors, such as working conditions or compensation, may be influencing workers’ decisions to leave. In contrast, workplace safety was found to have a positive and significant impact on retention, highlighting the importance of safety protocols in ensuring workforce stability. Additionally, education level, age, and experience were positively associated with retention. The findings underscore the need for improved HRM practices in the seaweed farming sector, particularly with regard to enhancing workplace safety and professional development opportunities. These insights provide a foundation for future research and policy development aimed at promoting sustainable workforce management in the blue economy.