Ministry of Manpower Committed to Ensuring Rights of Workers with Disabilities

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker) has emphasised its commitment to continuously overseeing the fulfilment of employment rights for persons with disabilities in the industrial sector through the creation of inclusive work environments.

Secretary General of Kemnaker, Cris Kuntadi, in his statement in Jakarta on Sunday, conveyed that the assistance provided is not limited to the recruitment process but also encompasses adjustments to the work environment (reasonable accommodations) and the provision of assistive work tools suited to the diverse needs of disabilities.

“We want to ensure that companies do not proceed alone. Kemnaker is present to assist, from mapping suitable positions to ensuring that supporting facilities are available, so that workers with disabilities can work productively and comfortably,” said Cris.

He also appreciated companies that have demonstrated real commitment in building inclusive workplaces for persons with disabilities.

According to Cris, the practices carried out by these companies have gone beyond fulfilling the 1 percent quota obligation as mandated by Law No. 8 of 2016 on Persons with Disabilities.

“What these companies are doing proves that inclusivity is not merely an administrative obligation, but a tangible manifestation of humanity and recognition of the work potential of persons with disabilities,” he emphasised.

In addition, Kemnaker also commended the courage of companies in opening up work opportunities for various disabilities that often face stigma, such as mental disabilities and intellectual disabilities (tunagrahita).

“Stigma is often the biggest barrier. However, these companies have proven that with proper support and management, persons with mental or intellectual disabilities can make positive contributions to business development,” he added.

Kemnaker hopes that these good practices can serve as inspiration for business actors in various regions to open up more equal and inclusive employment opportunities.

“We want more and more companies to realise that an inclusive work world is not only possible but also able to strengthen productivity, solidarity, and human values in the work environment,” said Cris.