Government Forms Layoff Task Force: Focuses on Preventing Layoffs and Creating Healthy Industrial Relations
By: Adnan Ramdani )*
The government has taken strategic steps to address the problem of layoffs (PHK) by forming a PHK Task Force (Satgas). This step is a manifestation of the government’s commitment to ensuring that industrial relations in Indonesia continue to run harmoniously, productively, and sustainably, while protecting workers’ rights. The formation of the PHK Task Force is expected to be an effective solution in reducing the number of sudden layoffs and managing the negative impacts caused by these employment problems.
Minister of Manpower, Yassierli said that his party has prepared the Industrial Sector Risk Matrix as a technical working basis for the Layoff Task Force. This matrix is designed to map the various potential risks faced by each industrial sector, whether caused by economic factors, technology, or changes in the global market. With this Risk Matrix, the Layoff Task Force can be more effective in identifying sectors that have the potential to experience an increase in layoffs, as well as formulating appropriate preventive measures.
The main focus of the PHK Task Force is the prevention of PHK, by paying more attention to efforts to prevent unwanted termination of employment. One concrete step taken is to take a dialogical approach between employers and workers to find a joint solution. This dialogue is very important in creating a shared understanding of the rights and obligations of each party, so that the potential for PHK can be avoided.
In addition, the PHK Task Force also functions to provide assistance to workers affected by layoffs so that they can obtain their rights in accordance with applicable regulations. The government through the PHK Task Force is committed to ensuring that workers who lose their jobs receive fair compensation, such as severance pay and social security, and are given access to training and work opportunities in other sectors. The goal is for workers affected by layoffs to be able to bounce back and obtain new jobs that match their skills.
With the formation of the PHK Task Force, the government is also trying to realize healthy and sustainable industrial relations. Healthy industrial relations are not only determined by an agreement between employers and workers, but are also marked by a sense of mutual trust and respect. The government invites all parties to work together to create a conducive work environment, where workers’ rights are respected and employers’ interests are also protected. This is very important, especially in the midst of the current uncertain economic conditions, where many sectors are affected by changes in the global market and an unstable economic situation.
This government step is also very important in creating a sense of security and stability among Indonesian workers. In an increasingly dynamic world of work, job security is one of the things that workers pay close attention to. With the presence of the Layoff Task Force, workers feel more protected, and they know that the government is there to protect their rights. On the other hand, for employers, the Layoff Task Force provides space to find wise solutions in managing their businesses without having to rush into mass layoffs, which can often lower morale and damage the company’s image.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chairperson of the National Economic Council, Mari Elka Pangestu said that the decision to lay off workers not only has an impact on individuals who lose their jobs, but also creates a large burden in terms of economy, social, and politics. Therefore, the presence of the Layoff Task Force is a form of government response to prevent layoffs. The government also shows its commitment by listening to the complaints and aspirations of industry players, especially exporters, and making maximum efforts to find a balanced solution to maintain the stability of employment and the national economy.
Then the presence of the PHK Task Force also strengthens the synergy between the government, employers, and labor unions. These three parties have a very vital role in creating a healthy employment ecosystem. Employers are expected to be wiser in making decisions regarding layoffs, while workers can better understand the situation faced by the company. Through this good collaboration, it is hoped that a mutually beneficial solution will be created for all parties.
In addition, the government also collaborates with various related parties to provide training and career guidance to workers who have been laid off. This not only helps them acquire new skills, but also increases their competitiveness in an increasingly competitive labor market. Through this holistic approach, the government seeks to create an Indonesian workforce that is ready to face the challenges of the times and has the ability to adapt to changes in the world of work.
Thus, the formation of the PHK Task Force is a positive step forward for Indonesia. This step shows that the government really cares about the welfare of workers and is trying to create a better employment system. On the other hand, for employers, the existence of the PHK Task Force provides an opportunity to make business adjustments in a more humane and measurable way. All parties are expected to support each other so that industrial relations in Indonesia become healthier, more harmonious, and more productive.
)* The author is a domestic economic observer
