Thousands of gig workers in Jakarta are preparing for a major protest to demand significant changes from the government. They want a new transport minister and laws that will better protect them. This action follows a period of high tension, marked by previous demonstrations that turned violent and even deadly.
This latest protest is being organized by major rider associations, including Garda and the Indonesian Transport Workers Union (SPAI). They plan to march past the parliament, the presidential palace, and the Ministry of Transport to convey their message.
A key reason for the protest is the death of a 21-year-old rider, Affan Kurniawan, who was killed by a police vehicle during a demonstration on August 28. His death added to the anger that was already present among workers.
Their demands are based on several core issues:
- Excessive Pay for Lawmakers: Public anger surged after a plan was revealed to give all 580 members of parliament a monthly housing allowance of 50 million rupiah. This amount is almost 10 times the minimum wage in Jakarta, which many people saw as deeply unfair.
- Lack of Communication: Gig workers feel their concerns are being ignored by the government. As the chairman of Garda, Raden Igun Wicaksono, stated, “The transport ministry has never held discussions with us to listen to our demands.”
- No Legal Protection: The workers are pushing for new laws to better protect them. They believe they lack security and support from the government and want a new rule that would give them protections similar to what gig workers have in other countries, like Malaysia or Singapore.
In response, the government has taken some steps, such as canceling the housing allowance for lawmakers and investigating the rider’s death. The police officer involved was demoted for seven years. However, the protesters say this is not enough. They have a list of demands, including protecting contract workers, preventing mass layoffs, and making government budgets more transparent.
A Look at Singapore’s Approach
In contrast, Singapore has already taken a different path. It has passed the Platform Workers Act, thanks to strong support from the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC). The Act provides clear rights and protections for platform workers, including mandatory retirement savings (CPF contributions), compensation if they get injured at work, and the right to be represented.
While riders in Indonesia are still fighting for basic recognition and legal protection, Singapore has already put stronger rules in place for its gig workers.
