JPS: Jakarta's labour-intensive programme is the right policy
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Jakarta Public Service (JPS) considers the Labour-Intensive Programme initiated by the Jakarta Provincial Government, which provides wages or income equivalent to the Provincial Minimum Wage (UMP), to be an appropriate policy amidst current economic conditions.
“Amidst the rise in fuel prices, which has the potential to impact the cost of goods and daily necessities, this programme can help the community secure an income,” said the Executive Director of Jakarta Public Diservices (JPS), M Syaiful Jihad, in a statement in Jakarta on Saturday.
He assessed that the labour-intensive programme policy is a pro-people step in the face of economic conditions potentially affected by the increase in fuel prices.
Syaiful explained that the rise in fuel prices has the potential to trigger price hikes for various basic necessities and other consumer goods.
Therefore, the presence of the labour-intensive programme serves as an important instrument to maintain public purchasing power, particularly for vulnerable and low-income groups.
“The labour-intensive programme initiated by the Governor of Jakarta, Pramono Anung, is a timely policy that favours the people,” he said.
Syaiful explained that the policy does not only provide temporary employment opportunities but also serves as a social buffer capable of reducing the economic pressure felt by the community.
“Prioritising residents registered in the Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS) demonstrates the government’s commitment to those most in need. Thus, the benefits of the programme can be more precisely targeted,” he added.
He expressed his hope that this policy would be accompanied by the placement of workers according to their respective domiciles. This step is considered capable of reducing transportation costs for beneficiaries while simultaneously helping to alleviate traffic congestion in Jakarta.
“Placing participants according to their residential areas is very important. In addition to minimising transport expenses, this policy also helps reduce excessive mobility and has the potential to curb congestion,” he said.
Syaiful also emphasised the importance of a recruitment process conducted openly and transparently to ensure the programme runs optimally and gains public trust.
“Transparency in the recruitment process must be a primary concern. The public must have equal access to information and a fair opportunity to participate in this programme. In this way, the labour-intensive programme can operate accountably and provide maximum benefits for Jakarta residents,” he said.
He hopes that the programme can continue to be expanded and become part of the regional government’s strategy to maintain economic stability for the community, especially amidst the various economic challenges currently being faced.
“I hope this Labour-Intensive Programme can also enhance the skills of the beneficiaries. The Regional Vocational Training Centre (PPKD) must play a role,” he concluded.