Puan Warns Domestic Workers Protection Bill Must Not Overlap with Other Laws

JAKARTA — Speaker of the House Puan Maharani has cautioned that the proposed Domestic Workers Protection Bill (RUU PPRT) must be carefully drafted to avoid overlapping with existing legislation.

“We must ensure there is no overlap with other laws,” Puan stated at the Parliamentary Complex in Jakarta on Tuesday, 10 March 2026.

Puan explained that the House is currently soliciting input from various stakeholders regarding the RUU PPRT. “This is to gather broader input from multiple parties and ensure meaningful participation not just from one side but from all relevant stakeholders, making the legislation more comprehensive,” she elaborated.

The RUU PPRT has been pending since 2004 and is considered urgent as a legal framework to protect workers in the domestic service sector.

“If it is confirmed for this year, then this year it is,” said Bob Hasan, head of the House’s Legislative Body (Baleg), at the DPR building on Thursday, 5 March 2026. “However, I cannot estimate a specific month at this point.”

Hasan spoke following a public hearing that brought together civil society organisations and domestic workers (PRT).

In response, Rieke Diah Pitaloka, a member of Commission XIII representing the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), expressed hope that the bill could be passed more quickly. “God willing, 21 April, Tuesday, 2026,” Rieke stated.

“If Ms Rieke wants Tuesday, 21 April,” acknowledged Bob.

Nonetheless, Bob emphasised that Baleg will continue holding public consultations with various parties to gather input for policy formulation. “We are committed to continuous consultation and meaningful public participation in every piece of legislation we develop,” Bob said.