Creating an Inclusive Work Environment by Embracing Workers with Disabilities
The issue of equal employment opportunities for people with disabilities has received a positive boost from the tobacco industry in Central Java. The HS cigarette factory, located in Muntilan, Magelang, is committed to embracing individuals with disabilities as productive workers without burdensome requirements, while also providing adequate housing facilities.
To date, 21 employees with disabilities have joined and are working in the rolling section. This step is taken by the company to break the chain of stigma and administrative barriers that have long been faced by the disabled group when seeking a decent livelihood.
Tika (35), a disabled employee from Temanggung, admitted to having difficulty penetrating the job market before finally being accepted at the factory. “It was very difficult to find work before. I applied to many places, but always failed,” Tika said on Tuesday (7/4/2026).
Similar joy was expressed by Tenyria Swastika (35). According to her, the company not only provides jobs but also respect and mobility support facilities. “Here I feel valued. Not differentiated, everyone is treated the same. Thank you for the opportunity and all the facilities in the form of mess housing given to us,” she said.
CEO of Surya Group Holding Company and owner of the HS cigarette brand, Muhammad Suryo, emphasised that his side is opening its doors as wide as possible to people with disabilities from all over Indonesia. He guaranteed that the recruitment process is carried out without work experience requirements.
“I will accept people with disabilities in any number. Even if they have no experience, we will accept them,” Suryo stated.
Suryo added that providing mess facilities or free housing is a company priority to assist workers, especially those from out of town or with physical mobility limitations.
Currently, the company is undergoing a major expansion by building new factories in two strategic locations, namely Yogyakarta and Lampung. This business expansion is expected to increase the absorption of labour, particularly from the disability group in those areas.
“For friends with disabilities throughout Indonesia who want to join, we happily accept them. Come join HS,” Suryo concluded.