JAKARTA – During the commemoration of International Workers’ Day (May Day), President Prabowo Subianto announced a monumental step by forming a National Workers’ Welfare Council as a government commitment to eliminate the outsourcing system which is the main demand of workers. This was conveyed directly by President Prabowo in front of hundreds of thousands of workers who filled the National Monument (Monas) area in Jakarta.
“As a gift for workers today, I will immediately form a National Workers’ Welfare Council,” he said, greeted by enthusiastic applause from the protesters.
The President also emphasized that the state will not remain silent if there is injustice towards workers. In addition, the government will also form a PHK Task Force (Satgas) to prevent unilateral termination of employment, as well as accelerate the discussion of the Domestic Workers Protection Bill and the Maritime and Fisheries Workers Protection Bill.
Adding to the historical record, President Prabowo’s presence at the May Day action was said to be the first since the era of President Soekarno in 1965. Deputy Chairman of the MPR RI Eddy Soeparno called the moment real evidence of the state’s support for workers.
“Appreciation and honor for President Prabowo. This is a symbol that the state is present,” he said.
On that occasion, the President also expressed support for the proposal of labor union figures to make Marsinah, a labor activist who died in 1993, a National Hero.
“If all labor leaders agree, I will support Marsinah to become a National Hero,” said Prabowo.
Meanwhile, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that several of the six demands of workers this year are in process. Among them is the mitigation of layoffs which is currently being worked on through the Job Opportunity Expansion Task Force.
“The demands are in process, which are being worked on through the Task Force,” explained Prasetyo.
From the workers’ side, the General Chairperson of FSP RTMM-SPSI, Sudarto AS conveyed the aspiration that President Prabowo provide greater protection for workers in labor-intensive industries, such as the Tobacco Products Industry (IHT), which is currently threatened by government regulations that are considered burdensome. He also encouraged the implementation of PPh 21 exemption for workers in this sector in order to maintain purchasing power amidst global challenges.
President Prabowo’s steps on Labor Day 2025 mark a new chapter in the struggle of workers in Indonesia, while also reflecting the government’s determination to listen more, embrace, and act for social justice for all Indonesian workers.
This council will consist of labor figures from all over Indonesia and is tasked with providing input to the President, especially in revising policies and regulations that are considered unfair to workers. One of the main tasks of this council is to review the transition mechanism for eliminating outsourcing, while maintaining the investment climate so that the business world continues to grow and the workforce continues to be absorbed.
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