On the grand stage of Jakarta, a multitude of workers, numbering in the thousands, united on International Workers’ Day. Their collective voice resonated, echoing their urgent demands: the repeal of the contentious Omnibus Law on Job Creation, an end to outsourcing practices, and a call for improved wages. Their solidarity was palpable, underscoring the power of collective action.
Ahmad Supriadi, Chairman of the Tangerang Regency Branch Council (DPC) of the Confederation of All Indonesian Workers’ Unions (KSPSI), underscored the significance of May Day 2024 as an opportune moment to advocate for workers’ rights and welfare, which they believe have been inadequately addressed.
To commemorate the occasion, approximately 3,000 demonstrators from various labor unions in Tangerang Raya marched from Tangerang to Jakarta’s Horse Statue. Their procession was punctuated by chants and slogans, with a particular focus on opposing the Omnibus Law on Job Creation, which they argue undermines labor rights.
Their demands extended beyond this law to include the repeal of Government Regulations (PP) No. 36 of 2002 and PP No. 51 of 2023 concerning wages. Ahmad stressed that salaries must be determined based on national industrial qualifications rather than regional economic conditions.
Drawing attention to the challenges workers face in Tangerang, where significant job layoffs have occurred, Ahmad emphasized the urgency of addressing labor issues at both the local and national levels.
Elsewhere, the Confederation of All Indonesian Workers’ Unions (SPSI) in Karawang mobilized 5,000 workers to join the protest in Jakarta. Vice Chairman Suparno assured that participation in the demonstration was voluntary, respecting the rights of those unable to attend due to work obligations.
In Karawang, May Day celebrations took various forms, including social activities such as blood donation drives, food bazaars, and orphanage support.
To ensure the safety of demonstrators, the Jakarta Metro Police deployed over 3,000 personnel strategically stationed at key points such as the Horse Statue area and Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.
Additionally, support for Palestine was demonstrated as the Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Network (JSO) and the Confederation of Prosperous Labor Unions (KSBSI) organized a demonstration in front of the United States Embassy.
Among the participants was Johannes, a foreign intern from SKF University Technology Center (UTC), who noted the contrast between May Day in Indonesia and Germany. While Indonesia saw robust demonstrations, in Germany, the holiday was typically a time for relaxation and leisure, with only a fraction choosing to protest.
