By: Doni Wisnu) *
The promulgation of the Job Creation Law at the end of 2020 brought protection for local workers, and they would not be replaced by foreign workers. In fact, local employees will receive new knowledge. Because foreign investors are obliged to provide knowledge transfer to all workers in Indonesia.
The workers had demonstrated repeatedly to reject the Job Creation Law. The reason is, in the Law there is an article that facilitates the entry of foreign investors, which will automatically bring in foreign workers (TKA). They are very afraid of being replaced and are paranoid about how to survive in the future.
Actually the workers don’t need to be afraid, because they misunderstand the draft of the Job Creation Bill that has already spread on the internet. The reason is that what is read is not the actual law. Because it is local workers who will be protected. So don’t believe in this hoax.
In fact, in the derivative regulations of the Job Creation Law, foreign investors are required to transfer technology to local workers. Sarman Simanjorang, Chairman of the Indonesian Indigenous Entrepreneurs Association of DKI, stated that foreign entrepreneurs or investors must conduct vocations for their employees (who are Indonesian citizens).
Sarman continued, the purpose of this technology transfer is so that local workers have the same abilities as foreign workers. Labor unions are also expected to supervise so that there is real vocational from foreign investors. In that sense, investors not only cooperate with local businessmen, but also provide knowledge to their employees so that they have qualified skills.
This proves that the Job Creation Law protects local workers. Because they still have their positions, instead they get new knowledge and skills from foreign investors. So that they can develop themselves and have better competence than before.
The work ethic and background of foreign investors are indeed different from Indonesian citizens. On average, they are more direct in expressing something, and tend to be more workaholic. So that employees will be motivated to work harder and no longer ask for permission without clear reasons, or even just skip work. Because they get an example from a boss who is diligent.
In addition, foreign investors have proven to be more disciplined in their work. Employees will feel embarrassed if they are late in work but are always number 1 in asking for a salary. Discipline will really be applied in the company, thus making production results even better.
Local workers also do not need to be afraid that their position will be displaced by foreign workers (TKA). Because if foreign investors enter Indonesia, it doesn’t mean that all of its employees will also be foreign nationals. The reason is because not all foreigners are allowed to work in this country.
Foreigners who will work in Indonesia must have several requirements. First, they must have certain skills. For example in the managerial field, adviser or consultant. So, those who are allowed to enter are only those who are at a professional level, not ordinary laborers who work hard.
They are also required to enter with a work visa and have a KITAS (temporary residence permit card), also have a guarantor in Indonesia. TKA must also show evidence of negative corona swab test results and when landing in Indonesia must retest, and self-quarantine for 14 days. So, not just foreign workers can work in this country.
Workers don’t have to be afraid of the Job Creation Law. This is because this law provides benefits, by requiring foreign investors to transfer technology. They will be educated not only to work hard and smart, but also to be more disciplined and respect their time.
) * The author is a contributor to the Cikini Press Circle and Students