Informal waste sector workers to receive 50% discount on JKK-JKM contributions

The government is providing social security protection for informal workers in the waste sector through a 50 per cent reduction in contributions for Work Accident Insurance (JKK) and Death Insurance (JKM), according to Manpower Minister Yassierli. With this policy, the monthly contribution has been reduced from Rp16,800 to Rp8,400. “We want 100 per cent of Indonesian workers to be covered by social security,” Yassierli said in a statement in Jakarta on Monday. The contribution relief is intended to make employment social security more affordable for informal workers. The policy is effective until the end of 2026 and will subsequently be evaluated by the government. Yassierli expressed hope that the policy can be continued so that more informal workers receive protection when facing occupational risks. The Manpower Minister referred to waste sector workers as “environmental heroes” for their role in reducing the amount of waste ending up in final disposal sites, while also supporting the circular economy and environmental management. He noted that this contribution comes with significant occupational risks, ranging from biological and chemical hazards, sharp objects, to physical accidents. Therefore, social security protection is an important part of ensuring they can work more safely. Meanwhile, the central government and the Jakarta provincial government launched a “Collaborative Action for the Launch of Social Protection for Informal Workers in the Waste Sector”. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo expressed support for the synergy between central and regional governments in providing social protection for informal waste sector workers, including around 4,000 waste pickers at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site in Bekasi. “The Jakarta provincial government fully welcomes the central government’s initiative and we will provide full support to deliver real protection for informal workers in the waste sector, including the waste pickers at Bantargebang,” Pramono said. He added that as a global city under the world’s spotlight, Jakarta must have an increasingly better environmental and waste management system. He also expressed hope that collaboration between the central government, the Jakarta provincial administration, BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, the business community, and the public can ensure all informal waste sector workers receive adequate protection.