Indonesian minister stresses dialogue and worker protection

Indonesia’s Manpower Minister Yassierli has highlighted social dialogue, lifelong learning and social protection across borders as important elements in safeguarding workers’ rights during global economic turmoil.

In a statement, he said economic disruption required countries and other parties to work together to develop their collective ability to respond to change. He said the Indonesian government would remain a supportive partner willing to engage with trade unions.

Speaking at the ASEAN Trade Union Council (AseanTUC) Regional Consultation Workshop in Jakarta, Yassierli backed discussions on labour matters raised by the council, including the protection of fundamental rights for Southeast Asian workers.

He described freedom of association as a fundamental worker right underpinning fair and healthy employment relations. He added that the constitution and international conventions guaranteed that right.

During the workshop, Yassierli awarded AseanTUC a certificate recognising its work to advance dialogue, sustain solidarity and extend social protection across Southeast Asia.

He also welcomed the council’s choice of Jakarta for its headquarters, saying he believed the move would improve strategic coordination and collaboration between the Indonesian government and the region’s trade union movement.