Questioning Jamsostek

Questioning Jamsostek

From Kompas

The money gathered by PT Jamsostek (state social security provider) belongs to employees/workers and the members of its social security programs. The actual amount of money managed by Jamsostek stands at trillions of rupiah.

As deductions from workers' salaries are paid into the fund on a monthly basis, the money should be disbursable whenever the worker needs it, regardless of whether he is retiring or has been dismissed.

Jamsostek garners profits on the investments in which it has placed this money, but it is far from clear whether the money is being properly managed. For instance, what about the money invested in Bank Global and other questionable places?

Government Regulation No.14/1993 provides that disbursement may be made at the discretion of the authorities. However, it is debatable whether this helps guarantee the fulfillment of workers' needs when they grow old.

As Jamsostek only manages money belonging to workers, this money should be made available whenever it is needed without restriction. If the regulation prevents workers reclaiming their own money when they need it most, it should be amended.

RUHENDI Jakarta