Ratusan Buruh Jabar Gelar Demo di Gedung Sate, Tuntut Kenaikan Upah 8-10 Persen dari UMK

Summary

In a rally led by the West Java Workers' Union and Teachers' Union, key demands were raised regarding workers' wages, pension fund amendments, and opposition to government regulations affecting minimum wage increases. With the impending inauguration of President Prabowo on October 20, protesters called for significant wage hikes of 8-10% to align with the cost of living. Concerns over job losses in the textile industry were also highlighted. The unions plan ongoing demonstrations until October 25, emphasizing their commitment to advocating for fair labor practices and necessary regulatory changes.

Takeaways

• ✊ The protest is organized by the Serikat Guru (Teachers' Union) and Serikat Pekerja (Workers' Union) in West Java, focusing on labor rights and wage issues.
• 📈 Unions demand a minimum wage increase of 8-10% for 2025, emphasizing the need for fair compensation based on living costs and market surveys.
• 🛑 There is strong opposition to the proposed pension fund amendments under the P2SK law, which the unions believe will negatively impact workers.
• ⚖️ A recent Supreme Court ruling supports the governor's authority to determine worker wages, a decision the unions want to challenge for better outcomes.
• 🏛️ Protests are planned at three significant locations: Gedung Sate, the Governor's residence, and the Department of Manpower, lasting three days.
• 🗓️ The protests aim to influence the newly elected president, Prabowo, to address their demands and implement changes before he takes office on October 20.
• 📉 Approximately 3,500 workers, particularly in the textile sector, have lost their jobs this year, highlighting the economic challenges facing laborers.
• 🤝 The unions are committed to ensuring their actions are peaceful while firmly asserting their demands for better working conditions and wages.
• 📊 Current regulations, such as Government Regulation No. 51 of 2023, are criticized for potentially leading to minimal wage increases across various regions.
• 🔔 The unions plan ongoing actions to escalate their demands if the government does not respond to their requests adequately, indicating a readiness for stronger measures.

Q & A

What are the main issues raised by the labor unions during the protests?

The labor unions are raising three main issues: the annual worker wages based on a Supreme Court ruling, the rejection of pension fund increases through the P2SK law, and opposition to Government Regulation No. 51 of 2023 regarding minimum wage determination.

What decision did the Supreme Court make on July 2, 2024, regarding worker wages?

The Supreme Court ruled that the decision regarding worker wages does not contradict existing laws, affirming the governor's authority to issue wage regulations.

What is the unions' stance on the planned pension fund increase?

The unions oppose the planned pension fund increase that is proposed to be enacted through the P2SK law.

Why are the labor unions against Government Regulation No. 51 of 2023?

They believe that if the current formula in Government Regulation No. 51 is used, minimum wage increases for 2025 will be insufficient, similar to the minimal increases in 2024.

What are the expected minimum wage increases for 2025 according to the unions?

The unions expect the minimum wage increases for 2025 to range from 8% to 10%, depending on the region.

How do the unions plan to exert pressure on the government regarding their demands?

The unions plan to hold protests across three locations, including Gedung Sate and the Governor's residence, and intend to escalate their actions if their demands are not met.

What potential consequences do the unions foresee if their demands are ignored?

If their demands are not met, the unions warn of possible larger protests similar to previous years, including the potential for highway closures.

What has been the impact of layoffs in the textile industry this year?

Approximately 3,500 layoffs have been reported in the textile and garment sectors, particularly in Central and West Java, attributed to a lack of orders.

What is the role of the newly elected president concerning the minimum wage?

The newly elected president, Prabowo, is expected to issue new regulations regarding minimum wage determination, which the unions hope will be more favorable.

How will the upcoming government decisions affect the wage proposals?

The proposals for minimum wage increases will be submitted to the provincial government before the November meetings, and any regulatory changes are hoped to be implemented prior to these discussions.