Semarang – Ahead of the commemoration of International Workers’ Day (May Day) on May 1, 2025, various pro-labor policies have been launched by the central and regional governments as a real commitment to building worker welfare and supporting sustainable development.
Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi announced a number of programs to support workers in his region. In the agenda of gathering and halalbihalal with labor unions at the Central Java Manpower and Transmigration Office, Luthfi emphasized the importance of security, safety, and economic aspects for workers.
One of the breakthroughs announced was the obligation for companies to provide free childcare facilities.
“For parents who work, who then takes care of their children? Then all companies must have daycare, and there should be no charge,” Luthfi stressed.
In addition, the provincial government will also strengthen workers’ cooperatives to be able to provide basic necessities at affordable prices through a direct distribution system from producers.
“For example, take rice must be from the rice node, chili must be taken from the farmer. So that the price is affordable,” said the former Central Java Police Chief.
In the transportation sector, Luthfi announced plans to subsidize public transportation fares for workers, students, people with disabilities, and the elderly.
“Public transportation for workers, disabled students, and the elderly is only IDR 1,000,” he said.
This step will be strengthened by issuing a Circular Letter and expanding the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route to industrial areas.
President Prabowo Subianto previously also showed his concern for workers’ welfare by increasing the National Minimum Wage (UMN) by 6.5 percent in 2025.
“Workers are the backbone of the country, and they must receive proper protection and welfare,” he said.
Meanwhile, the latest government regulation through Government Regulation (PP) Number 6 of 2025 has also received appreciation from labor unions. The regulation strengthens protection by increasing the benefits of the Job Loss Guarantee (JKP) program, including compensation and training worth IDR 2.4 million for victims of layoffs.
Deputy Chairperson of the DPC FSP Kahutindo Tarakan City assessed that this policy is very helpful for workers who have lost their jobs.
“We welcome it precisely because with the loss of jobs, it is impossible when we are laid off to suddenly get a job, of course there is a few months to be able to get a job again. So frankly it is very helpful for us,” he said.
This series of policies is the government’s commitment to building social justice based on worker protection. With a collaborative approach between the center and regions, pro-labor programs are believed to not only strengthen welfare, but also support the foundation of sustainable development in Indonesia.