Said Iqbal Vows to Report Ministers Unsupportive of Labour to Prabowo

Said Iqbal, the Special Presidential Advisor for Labour and Worker Welfare, has declared his readiness to report to President Prabowo Subianto should he find any ministers failing to work towards the interests of labourers and employees. Speaking after his inauguration at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Monday, Iqbal acknowledged that his role as an advisor does not grant him the authority to make decisions or execute policies. However, he emphasised his ability to provide direct input, analysis, and evaluation to the Head of State.

“But we can be certain that if a minister is not working, we will report it to the President. Whatever position you hold as a minister, if you are not performing, you should resign,” Iqbal stated. He explained that his primary duty involves presenting suggestions, ideas, and policy analyses regarding the welfare of workers to the President. To achieve this, he intends to coordinate with various relevant ministries, noting that while he is not an executor, he will monitor the implementation of labour-related policies.

Iqbal highlighted several key focus areas, including job security, income security, and social security. He noted that the upcoming discussion on the Labour Bill (RUU Ketenagakerjaan) will be a priority, specifically regarding limitations on outsourcing, fair wages, and the protection of informal workers. Additionally, he raised concerns regarding the implementation of commission caps for online motorcycle taxi drivers, which continues to face complaints. Despite his critical stance on potential ministerial negligence, Iqbal expressed optimism regarding the performance of the Red and White Cabinet, hoping his presence will empower the government to build a more prosperous Indonesia. Said Iqbal, formerly the President of the Labour Party and the Indonesian Confederation of Trade Unions (KSPI), was officially appointed by President Prabowo Subianto on Monday evening.