Makassar City Government Collaborates with Labour Groups to Introduce New Concept for May Day Commemoration

The 2026 May Day holds special attention for us all. We are considering various ways to think about and successfully implement together so that this celebration takes place in a lively manner. Makassar (ANTARA) - The Makassar City Government in South Sulawesi, together with workers affiliated with the People’s Movement Coalition, is packaging the commemoration of International Labour Day or May Day with a new concept that is more inclusive and participatory. Makassar Mayor Munafri Arifuddin in Makassar on Friday emphasised that the 2026 International Labour Day commemoration must become a moment of happiness for improving workers’ welfare. “The 2026 May Day holds special attention for us all. We are considering various ways to think about and successfully implement together so that this celebration takes place in a lively manner,” he stated. Munafri Arifuddin said that his side, along with all stakeholders, supports a more lively celebration concept through an event titled May Day Fest at Karebosi Field in Makassar. He mentioned that the People’s Movement Coalition consists of various groups, ranging from labour unions, urban poor communities, street vendors, farmers, traditional market traders, to students. “This year’s May Day commemoration we are making different. Not just actions, but there are four main activities that we are preparing,” he said. The series of activities begins with a leisurely walk starting at 06:00 WITA. Then, from 08:00 to 08:30 WITA, a major labour assembly will be held featuring various stakeholders. “We want regional leaders to directly convey their stance on the fate of workers today,” he explained. This concept is expected to bring a more humane, creative celebration atmosphere while still rich with messages of struggle. Akhmad Rianto revealed that the number of participants expected to attend is around 10,000 people from various elements of society. He added that there are four major labour confederations that have stated they will join, namely the Indonesian Trade Union Confederation (KPBI), the National Joint Labour Union (SGBN), the All-Indonesian Labour Union Confederation (KSBSI/KSBC), and the Indonesian Workers’ Union Confederation (KSPI).