Labor v.

Labor v. Management

From Bisnis Indonesia

A few days ago Bisnis Indonesia carried a report on a labor problem discussed in an International Labor Organization (ILO)- sponsored workshop on Bipartite Institutions and Workplace Cooperation.

A few months earlier, we read reports that some companies were planning to relocate their production activities to other countries due in large part to the disputes between employers and employees here.

In fact, during the New Order period, it was the iron hand in this country that led to tension between two disputing parties. The government is needed in any disputes, not to solve the problem but to ensure that the settlement reached will be proper and fair for both parties. Also it is the job of the government to ensure that the parties involved comply with what has been agreed upon.

We are in a new era now but labor problems remain sensitive. For the sake of our future, these problems must be carefully and wisely solved.

As a matter of fact, the answers to these two questions are the key to solving labor problems in this country: * How to make employees work enthusiastically, actively strive for the survival of the company and ensure the company can run and develop. * How to make employers love their employees, improve not only their health and welfare but also their skills and treat the employees more humanely.

If these questions are adequately addressed, it will create harmonious and appropriate work relationships between the company and the employees, and contribute to the maintenance of security.

S.ADIPRASITO

Surabaya