May Day Momentum for Workers to Show Maturity in Voicing Aspirations

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. “The Monas field was attended directly by President Prabowo Subianto as the President of the Republic of Indonesia. This is the second time history has repeated itself, a President of the Republic of Indonesia was present directly with workers in the celebration of May Day or International Workers’ Day. 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 a mature attitude 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, appreciated the steps taken by workers who prioritized a wise attitude in responding to the momentum of May Day. He assessed that demonstrations that were not managed properly could cause a domino effect that would harm many parties. “Demonstrations that were not managed wisely could cause a domino effect. Not only economic losses, the industry’s reputation could also be destroyed. In fact, quite a few investors chose to leave and move their businesses to more conducive areas or countries,” said Dr. Nurmadi.

Meanwhile, the Metro Jaya Police Chief, Inspector General Karyoto, expressed his appreciation for the safe situation during the May Day celebrations. 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 {}