May Day Protests in Jakarta
Hundreds of workers gathered outside Indonesia’s parliament in Jakarta on Friday to mark May Day, calling for reforms to the country’s wage system, limits on working hours and improved living standards.
Footage shows demonstrators assembling near the parliamentary complex with banners and placards reading ‘Decent work, decent life’ and ‘Social justice for all the people, not for capital owners.’ Rally participants were also seen burning tyres outside the building.
Workers Demand Wage and Labour Reforms
President of the Confederation of Indonesian Trade Unions Congress Alliance (KASBI) said many workers across sectors were still not receiving rights guaranteed under existing laws.
“We are also urging the government and the House of Representatives to reform Indonesia’s wage system, which has led to the erosion of workers’ wages and the disparity between wages in one region and those in another,” he said.
Another protester said many workers continued to face long hours and inadequate pay.
“Work hours that still exceed eight hours, unpaid overtime, and wages that are insufficient to provide a decent standard of living for the Indonesian people,” she said.
Student Support and Broader Concerns
Students also joined the demonstration, expressing support for workers’ demands and linking labour issues to broader concerns about economic opportunities for younger generations.
Nationwide and Global Context
The rally in Jakarta was part of wider May Day demonstrations held across the country and globally, as workers highlight concerns over wages, job security and rising living costs.
Article by Viory
