Indonesia is renewing its commitment to protect and uplift its migrant workers, with Minister of Migrant Workers Protection Abdul Kadir Karding calling for better rights, security, and prosperity for Indonesians working abroad. His comments came during the International Workers’ Day celebration on May 1 at Jakarta’s National Monument Square, where he joined President Prabowo Subianto in addressing the nation’s workforce.
Minister Karding expressed hope that migrant workers will receive the recognition and support they deserve, especially as new policies and reforms are set to improve their working conditions. He noted that President Prabowo had promised several significant steps forward, including faster discussions on the long-awaited Domestic Workers Bill.
One of the key plans announced was the creation of a National Workers Welfare Council, aimed at boosting workers’ well-being and addressing long-standing issues such as outsourcing, which the president is considering abolishing. “We are hopeful that workers, especially migrant workers, will finally have all their rights fully protected and that their welfare will improve,” said Karding.
He also stressed the importance of unity and collective strength among workers, stating, “Long live the workers. Let us unite to defend the nation.”
The Ministry of Migrant Workers Protection is also ramping up efforts to create safe migration routes. These safe pathways are especially critical in provinces like Java, West Nusa Tenggara, Lampung, and East Nusa Tenggara, where a large number of Indonesians seek overseas employment. The goal is to protect potential migrant workers from exploitation and trafficking.
These measures reflect Indonesia’s broader push to safeguard its citizens who seek employment abroad, many of whom are vulnerable to abuse in host countries. With a strong focus on coordination between national and regional agencies, the government hopes to strengthen enforcement, raise awareness, and ensure fair employment practices for its overseas workers.
As Indonesia marks International Workers’ Day, the government’s promise to place workers’ rights and welfare at the center of national development is seen as a positive step by labor advocates and citizens alike.