Hero of the Past, Inspiration for Today (Part 1)

Marsinah is an icon of the struggle for labour rights in Indonesia and a symbol of the courage of ordinary people in fighting corporate injustice and repression during the New Order era. Born on 10 April 1969 in Nganjuk, East Java, Marsinah was found dead on 8 May 1993. She was a worker at PT Catur Putra Surya in Porong, Sidoarjo. Marsinah’s struggle began with demands for improved worker welfare in accordance with the governor of East Java’s instruction at the time regarding an increase in the basic wage. The designation of Marsinah as a national hero marks an important milestone in the history of awarding this title, as it provides state recognition for the struggle of ordinary people in upholding social justice.