Maxim Indonesia Responds to Ojol Classification as MSMEs
The ride-hailing company Maxim Indonesia has responded to the government’s policy designating online taxi drivers (ojol) as Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Development Director of Maxim Indonesia, Dirhamsyah, views this classification as an alternative way to maintain the principles of flexibility and independence for driver partners.
“This simultaneously opens opportunities for them to gain access to various government support programmes and subsidies,” he stated in a written explanation to Tempo on Tuesday, 7 July 2026.
Dirhamsyah noted that the company will conduct a thorough review of the policy details to ensure it can be implemented in a balanced manner. He was unable to comment further when asked about the possibility of changing the partnership model following the MSME classification.
“We are still awaiting further clarification from the government regarding the details of the policy that will be implemented,” he said.
Dirhamsyah emphasised that Maxim remains committed to strengthening the protection and welfare of driver partners, including through accident and disaster assistance, as well as social aid. Another commitment involves providing opportunities for more flexible income for drivers as part of the company’s responsibility to support a sustainable online transport ecosystem.
“This commitment does not depend on a specific status or policy scheme, but is part of Maxim’s efforts to maintain a balance between driver welfare and protection, service affordability for customers, and industry sustainability,” Dirhamsyah added.
Minister of MSMEs Maman Abdurrahman stated that the designation of online taxi drivers as micro-business actors in the transport sector is based on the aspirations of the majority of drivers and platform providers. Through this policy, the government will provide various facilities previously targeted at MSMEs, such as tax incentives and People’s Business Credit (KUR). “So that they can have a decent livelihood,” Maman said on Monday, 6 July 2026.
However, the Indonesian Transport Workers Union (SPAI) has rejected the policy. SPAI Chairperson Lily Pujiati stated that online taxi drivers require recognition as workers, rather than access to KUR facilities. She argued that drivers need income certainty rather than loans.
“If online taxi drivers are categorised as MSMEs, we are concerned that platforms will instead release their responsibility to provide worker rights to the drivers,” said Lily.
Conversely, the General Chairperson of the Garda Indonesia Online Taxi Driver Association, Igun Wicaksono, views the MSME status as state recognition for drivers. According to him, through this policy, the state is present to provide clarity regarding the legal relationship and status of the drivers.