Government Protects Workers, Calls for Demonstrations Considered Potential for Abuse
Jakarta – Deputy Minister of Manpower, Afriansyah Noor, emphasized that the government continues to take concrete and measurable steps to protect workers’ rights amidst the dynamics of labor policy discussions. He explained that the formula for setting the 2026 Minimum Wage has been comprehensively discussed through a national tripartite forum involving representatives of workers and employers. This mechanism, he said, provides a legitimate space for each group to express their views openly and objectively.
“The minimum wage must ensure that workers’ purchasing power is maintained, while also providing space for the business world to operate healthily,” he said. Afriansyah emphasized that the government not only views wage issues from the workers’ perspective but also considers business stability to ensure long-term employment.
This statement came amidst the emergence of calls for demonstrations, which have recently been deemed potentially exploited by certain parties for interests beyond workers’ welfare. According to Afriansyah, official dialogue through tripartite institutions has proven to be the most effective mechanism for maintaining order and ensuring that workers’ aspirations are addressed transparently and fairly. The government is also strengthening its oversight and monitoring system to ensure that every demand submitted through official procedures can be properly addressed.
The Chairperson of Commission IX of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Felly Estelita Runtuwene, also expressed her full support for the government’s efforts to maintain a balance between workers’ rights and business sustainability. She emphasized that constructive dialogue is a key foundation for building social stability, particularly in the employment sector, which involves the interests of many parties.
“The government and the DPR will continue to promote tripartite forums as a means of conveying legitimate aspirations. All parties are expected to utilize these official channels, rather than resorting to actions that could lead to conflict,” she emphasized. Felly added that maintaining public order is key to preventing workers’ interests from being distorted by misleading narratives.
The synergy between the government and the DPR in strengthening official dialogue channels through tripartite forums confirms that worker protection is a priority that must be implemented in a measured and responsible manner. This approach not only maintains public order but also ensures that every worker’s aspirations are processed transparently without being influenced by provocation or deviant interests. Thus, the state demonstrates a strong commitment to realizing workers’ welfare through safe, legal, and constructive mechanisms.
