Jakarta – The commemoration of International Workers’ Day or May Day which falls on May 1, 2025 took place safely, peacefully, and full of solidarity. Thousands of workers from various labor unions crowded the National Monument (Monas) area, Jakarta, to voice their aspirations in an orderly and constitutional manner. This moment is proof of the maturity of workers in conveying demands while maintaining national conduciveness.
The President of the Confederation of Indonesian Trade Unions (KSPI), Said Iqbal, emphasized that this May Day celebration was very historic because it was attended directly by the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto. “In the Monas field, it was attended directly by Mr. President Prabowo Subianto as the President of the Republic of Indonesia. This is the second time history has repeated itself, an Indonesian President was present directly with workers in the May Day or International Labor Day celebration. The first to do so was the first President of the Republic of Indonesia, namely Bung Karno or Ir. Soekarno on May 1, 1965,” said Said Iqbal.
The presence of President Prabowo Subianto is considered a symbol of the government’s openness in listening to and responding to the aspirations of workers. On the other hand, workers also showed maturity in organizing, avoiding provocation, and maintaining a peaceful atmosphere without disturbing public order.
Political observer from Sebelas Maret University (UNS) Surakarta, Dr. Nurmadi Harsa Sumarta, appreciates the workers’ steps in prioritizing a wise attitude in responding to the momentum of May Day. He assessed that demonstrations that are not managed well can cause a domino effect that is detrimental to many parties. “Demonstrations that are not managed wisely can cause a domino effect. Not only economic losses, the industry’s reputation can also be destroyed. In fact, not a few investors choose to leave and move their businesses to more conducive areas or countries,” said Dr. Nurmadi.
Meanwhile, Metro Jaya Police Chief Inspector General Karyoto expressed his appreciation for the safe situation during the May Day celebration. According to him, security stability is an absolute requirement so that the delivery of aspirations can run optimally without causing unrest. “We must maintain the momentum of May Day as best we can. Don’t let there be any security disturbances that could tarnish the image of this celebration,” he said.
The commemoration of May Day 2025 is proof that the labor movement in Indonesia is increasingly mature in voicing its rights and interests. By maintaining democratic ethics and public order, workers not only convey their aspirations, but also help maintain the nation’s dignity in the eyes of the world {}
