Workers as the Backbone of Economic Development, Welfare as the Main Foundation for Industrial Progress
Workers as the Backbone of Economic Development, Welfare as the Main Foundation for Industrial Progress
- Special Report
Jakarta, VIVA – Minarni Panggabean, Chair of the National Board of the Indonesian Red and White Entrepreneurs Association (DPN GAPEMPI), supports efforts to improve the welfare of Indonesian workers and employees.
“Prosperous workers, empowered nation,” said Minarni in a press statement in Jakarta on Friday, 1 May 2026, marking International Labour Day or “May Day”.
The entrepreneur, who is also an advocate, believes that the welfare of workers deserves attention from all stakeholders, including the government, businesses, labour organisations, and labour advocacy institutions.
She stated that amid global economic dynamics and the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, 1 May is more than just a national holiday or routine ceremony.
“This year, the main focus is sharper: real support for improving workers’ welfare,” she said.
She added that with the overarching theme adopted by various labour unions—“Collaboration to Realise Industrial Progress and Workers’ Welfare”—the 2026 commemoration demands synergy between the government, businesses, and workers to create a fair, humane, and just work ecosystem.
Foundation for Sustainable Progress
In another part of her statement, Minarni said that workers are the backbone of economic development. She continued that their welfare, in the form of decent wages, workplace safety, and social security, is the main foundation for industrial progress.
In her view, the “May Day 2026” commemoration emphasises that improving welfare is not a burden on companies but a strategic investment. “Prosperous workers are productive, innovative, and loyal workers, which will ultimately enhance industrial competitiveness in the era of globalisation,” she continued.
Minarni admitted to having gathered various worker aspirations voiced ahead of 1 May 2026, and she supports them.
Regarding demands for fair wage adjustments, Minarni views the 2026 minimum wage increase, aligned with living costs and inflation rates, as aimed at maintaining workers’ purchasing power.
Minarni also agrees with demands to revise labour regulations to eliminate outsourcing systems that are detrimental, and to ensure more permanent employment status for workers.
She also supports efforts for a just transition in the digital era. According to her, demands for companies to provide fully funded reskilling training for workers affected by automation or AI are reasonable, so they do not lose their jobs.