Mayday Celebration, Momentum for Peaceful Reflection and Collaboration for the Future of Workers
Jakarta – Ahead of the International Workers’ Day or May Day celebration on May 1, various elements of society are calling on all workers in Indonesia to maintain a conducive atmosphere, avoid provocation, and celebrate this annual momentum with a positive spirit. May Day is considered an important opportunity, not only to voice workers’ rights, but also to reflect together in order to build a more prosperous and productive future for the world of work.
CEO of PT Hernadhi Jaya Abadi (HJKARPET), Heru Purnomo, reminded that workers’ welfare is not solely measured by the amount of salary received, but also determined by work ethic and productivity. “Workers must jointly introspect because the work ethic and productivity of employees in Indonesia are still lagging behind other countries. For that, there needs to be supervision and increased productivity. This is a joint introspection, not only about salary, but performance is also important,” said Heru.
Furthermore, Heru emphasized the importance of preparing for the future of workers after retirement. He encouraged a two to four-year skills training program before retirement to equip workers to open a business or invest. “This pre-retirement program requires cooperation between companies, labor unions, and the government to be effective,” he added.
Meanwhile, Political Observer from Sebelas Maret University (UNS) Surakarta, Dr. Nurmadi Harsa Sumarta, reminded the importance of wisely managing demonstrations on May Day. He said that uncontrolled demonstrations could have a negative impact on the economy and investment climate. “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, many investors choose to leave and move their businesses to more conducive areas or countries,” explained Nurmadi.
In line with that, the General Chairperson of the National Conscience Movement (GNK), Habib Syakur Ali, also appealed for May Day to be celebrated peacefully and with a positive spirit. He reminded of the importance of maintaining unity and not getting caught up in provocation. “May Day is an important moment for workers to voice their rights, but it must be celebrated in a positive, joyful way, and still maintain unity,” said Habib Syakur. He added, “We must be careful of individuals who want to harm the essence of the workers’ struggle with anarchic or violent actions.”
According to Habib Syakur, Indonesian workers must be able to become intelligent and dignified pioneers of change. “Don’t let provocation damage our solidarity,” he said.
With the spirit of reflection, collaboration, and peace, this year’s May Day celebration is expected to be a new foothold for building healthier industrial relations, increasing the competitiveness of the national workforce, and fighting for workers’ welfare in a sustainable manner.
