Workers clash with police at Jakarta airport
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Aksi Ricuh, Buruh Mau Masuk ke Bandara Soekarno Hatta - detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Dira Derby, Jakarta – A clash broke out between workers and police at the rear entrance to the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Sunday when police refused to allow protesting from the Indonesian People's Opposition Front (FORI) from entering the airport.
Wearing red uniforms and carrying flags, banners, posters and megaphones, the workers gave speeches along the length of the road leading to the airport. Despite being blocked by police the demonstrators were determined to continue the demonstration inside the airport.
When the workers came face-to-face with the police blockade a clash broke out with demonstrators and police pushing and shoving each other and the two sides coming to blows. The scuffle did not last long however and protest leaders and the police were eventually able to calm the protesters down.
In speeches the workers demanding that the government abolish contract labour systems or outsourcing, which they said means that workers have no job security.
"Contract workers are very vulnerable to intimidation or even dismissals when there are problems with the company or wish to be involved in a trade union. So we will besiege and occupy the Soekarno-Hatta airport", said Rendra, one of the workers.
As of 2pm the protest action was still continuing resulting in severe traffic congestion at the M1 toll road gate in the direction of Tangerang city. (gah/gah)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Solo workers commemorate May Day by 'destroying walls of capital'
CyberNews - May 1, 2011
Nasib Kaum Buruh Masih Mengenaskan - CyberNews. 01 Mei 2011 <http://suaramerdeka.com/v1/
Solo -- Commemorating International Labour Day on May 1, two protest actions were held by workers and students in the Central City of Solo on Sunday.
During a demonstration led by students from the Surakarta (Solo) Muhammadiyah University (MS) and the Solo Solidarity Trade Union Federation (FSBSK), the protesters deplored employers and the government for failing to pay heed to the fate of workers.
They also held a theatrical action at the UMS campus intersection on Jl. Ahmad Yani depicting the suffering of Indonesian workers. "Mercy boss, mercy boss. We're working as hard as we can", cried Sutanto, Ipung and Tri Purwanto as they played the part of workers while Iwan Setiawan, who was portrayed as an employer trampled on their heads.
During the action the protesters read out a number of demands including rejecting contract labour or outsourcing, called for a decent wage for workers in line with the reasonable living cost index (KHL) and criticised labour laws for failing to side with workers.
The action descended into chaos when a scuffle broke out with police after demonstrators destroyed a theatrical prop in the form of a two-metre high bamboo cone-shaped building symbolising the employers' empire. "Destroy the capitalists' walls, destroy them", said one of the demonstrators as they shouted long live workers and argued with police.
Separately, around 50 workers from the Surakarta city and Sukoharjo regency branches of National Trade Union (SPN) held a demonstration at the Gladag traffic circle demanding justice for workers. Emphasising four points, the workers rejected outsourcing system, demanding a reasonable wage, called for revisions to the Ministry of Labour Regulation Number 17/2004 and the upholding of labour laws, which they said employers and the government had failed to address to this day.
"[Wages] in Solo and surrounding areas are still not adequate, employees' wages are only 826,000 rupiah per month. When we conducted a survey in later March 2010 in cooperation with the AKKK (Occupational Health and Safety Program, AK3) it [should] be at least 1,400,000 rupiah per month. Bearing in mind the increasing cost of living", said SPN Sukoharjo chairperson Kuwadi Mulyadi. (Asep Abdullah/CN26/JBSM)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Boyolali workers reject contract labour, call for women workers' rights
Solo Post - May 1, 2011
Ratusan buruh di Boyolali peringati May Day - Solopos.com. 1 Mei 2011 <http://www.solopos.com/2011/
Boyolali – Hundreds of workers from a number of different companies in Boyolali, Central Java, held a peaceful action commemorating May Day on Sunday.
During the action, the workers drove around the city on motorbikes starting from the National Trade Union (SPN) offices on Jl. Pahlawan and ending up at the Labour, Transmigration and Social Affairs Offices (Disnakertransos) where they were received by Disnakertransos head Ir Mulyatno and office officials.
After giving speeches at the Disnakertransos, the workers then continued the action at a number of companies in the Mojosongo and Teras sub-districts.
In their demands the SPN called for revisions to the Law Number 3/1992 on the Workers Insurance Scheme and Law Number 2/2004 on the Settlement of Industrial Disputes. They also rejected contract labour systems and called for the enforcement of labour laws and the fulfillment of women workers' rights. (fid)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Workers in Purwokerto commemorate May Day with 'sleep in'
Media Indonesia - May 1, 2011
Peringati Hari Buruh, Massa Tiduran di Jalan - Mediaindonesia.com. Minggu, 01 Mei 2011 <http://www.mediaindonesia.
Liliek Dharmawan, Purwokerto – At least 150 people from the People's Struggle Front (FPR) held a demonstration to commemorate International Labour day at the Purwokerto town square in Central Java on Sunday.
During the action, the protesters even held a "sleep in" action on Jl. Jenderal Soedirman in front of the square in which 10 activists threw themselves down on the hot asphalt while the other demonstrators shouted their support for the workers' demands. As a result police were forced to redirect traffic passing by the square.
In a speech action coordinator Widi said that the workers are demanding wages in line with a reasonable living standard. "We also call for the abolition of contract work systems, protection for migrant workers and the annulment of laws that smack of neoliberalism", asserted Widi.
The action, which was also supported by a number of student organisations and NGOs, began at around 10am and was closely guarded by police. The demonstration action was ended with the release of balloons into the air. (OL-12)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Workers in Sukabumi say they have no time to perform ritual prayers
Pikiran Rakyat - May 1, 2011
Ratusan Ribu Buruh Datangi Pendopo Sukabumi - Pikiran Rakyat. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.pikiran-rakyat.
Sukabumi (PRLM) – Hundreds of workers from the Sukabumi regency National Trade Union (SPN) in West Java commemorated International May day at the Sukabumi regional government offices.
Arriving on motorbikes, the workers then forced their way into the government office grounds. In anticipation of the workers' arrival, the Sukabumi city police and military personal were on alert and prevented the workers from entering main audience hall.
"In addition to concerns over welfare and healthcare workers are to this day still being neglected. We are asking for workers to be given enough time to pray. Because for almost all of them, the opportunities to pray are very limited. We find it difficult to perform our ritual prayers five times a day", said Hera Iskandar, the chairperson of the Sukabumi SPN regional leadership board. (A-162/A-120)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Workers call for cancelation of ASEAN-China free trade agreement
VIVAnews - May 1, 2011
Buruh Tuntut Batalkan ACFTA - VIVAnews. Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 <http://bisnis.vivanews.com/
A workers action commemorating International Labour Day or May Day at the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta also demanded the cancelation of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA).
"Cancel the free trade agreement with China (ACFTA), because it is paralysing the people's economy in all sectors of the economy", said National Labour Union (SPN) central leadership board chairperson Bambang Wirahyoso during the action on Sunday.
In addition to demanding the cancelation of the ACFTA, the protesting workers at the DPR also called for the immediate ratification of the Social Insurance Management Agency (BPJS) law and the eradication of the judicial mafia in the Supreme Court, particularly in relation to industrial relations cases.
A short time ago Industry Minister MS Hidayat reported that the free trade deal with China had resulted in a 25 percent decline in domestic production. Factors such as the un-readiness of local employers, particularly in relation to product competitiveness, were cited as one of the causes. Rampant smuggling is damaging domestic markets.
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Activists and workers in Lampung say workers' rights being trampled on
Republika - May 1, 2011
Ratusan Aktivis dan Buruh di Lampung Turun ke Jalan – Republika. Sunday, 01 May 2011 <http://www.republika.co.id/
Mursalin Yasland, Bandar Lampung – Hundreds of activists and workers in the Lampung provincial capital of Bandar Lampung took to the city's street on International Labour Day.
The protesters started the action in front of a well known shopping centre in Bandar Lampung then marched towards the Elephant Monument traffic circle and rallied in front of the busiest shopping centre in the city. In addition to giving speeches, they also handed out leaflets with demands for more attention to be paid to workers' welfare and labour rights.
The 500 or so protesters came from the group Lampung People's Struggle (PRL), which is made up of 32 organisations or NGOs that support the struggle for better working conditions. "This is a peaceful action, to fight for workers' interests, which are increasingly languishing as their rights are trampled on by the hegemony of power", said one of the activists, Suryadi.
In another part of the city, the Bandar Lampung Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) also used May Day to convey their demands. In a press release the journalists called for safety guarantees and increased wages. AJI said that these demands are urgent in order that journalists can be more professional in carrying out their assignments.
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Journalists in Aceh call for improved safety guarantees and welfare
Media Indonesia - May 1, 2011
Peringati May Day, Wartawan Banda Aceh Gelar Aksi Damai - mediaindonesia.com. Minggu, 01 Mei 2011 <http://www.mediaindonesia.
Hendra Saputram Banda Aceh -- Commemorating International Labour Day, scores of mass media workers in the Acehnese provincial of Banda Aceh held a peaceful action condemning violence against journalists on Sunday.
During the action, which took place at the Simpang Lima traffic circle, the journalists also condemned an attack on Pidie Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) chairperson Rahmad Idris and an Analisa Daily journalist by a former Free Aceh Movement (GAM) member in Padang Tiji, Pidie.
In speeches the journalists called on the police to fully investigate cases of violence against journalists and try the perpetrators. The action, which was held by cross-media journalists in Aceh, also demanded better safety guarantees and welfare for journalists.
AJI Banda Aceh chairperson Mukhtaruddin Yakob said that welfare and the threat of violence is still the main problem faced by journalists in Indonesia.
"Many journalists are not paid decent wages by their media. Yet the risk in carrying out assignments is very high. There are still many journalists who are not yet covered by insurance by the media companies where they work. The low wages received by journalists make it difficult for them to work professionally, so not a few of them are forced to violate journalistic ethics", said Yakob.
AJI has record 66 cases of valence against journalists in 2010 and the Committee to Project Journalist includes Indonesia on the list of countries where journalists are at risk. (OL-12)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Workers in Semarang say government sides with capitalists, not workers
CyberNews - May 1, 2011
May Day Macetkan Jalan - CyberNews. 01 Mei 2011 <http://suaramerdeka.com/v1/
Semarang -- Hundreds of people from groups such as the National Workers Union (SPN) and the Indonesian People's United Resistance (PPRI) commemorated International Labour Day (May Day) on Sunday in the Central Java provincial capital of Semarang.
The SPN held its action in the vicinity of Jl. Pahlawan while the PPRI started their action at the Baiturrahman Mosque in Simpanglima then marched to Jl. Pahlawan.
The march by the PPRI, which is composed of the SMI, the Lengkong Youth, the Indonesian Cultural Society Union (Sebumi), Indonesian Parliamentary Youth (PPI) and the Indonesia People’s Movement (GRI), took up the entire road forcing vehicle behind to trail slowly behind. The march resulted in several minutes of traffic congestion.
One of the PPRI activists, Rendra, said that the current administration does not side with workers but with capitalists. "We are demanding three things, the nationalisation of state assets for the people's welfare, building a people-based national industry and the implementation of genuine agrarian reform", he said.
As of 11am the PPRI protesters were still holding free speeches on Jl. Pahlawan. The previous night they also held a cultural contemplation at the same location. The action was guarded by hundreds of police. (Adhitia A, Krisnaji Satriawan/CN14/JBSM)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Workers alliance calls for improved working conditions
Komhukum - May 1, 2011
Peringati May Day, Ribuan Buruh Menyemut Di Istana - Komhukum. 1 Mai 2011 <http://www.komhukum.com/
Komhukum (Jakarta) -- Thousands of workers are still demonstrating at the State Palace on Jl. Merdeka Barat in Central Jakarta demanding reforms to working conditions.
The protesting workers, who had been gathering since this morning, had earlier held a long-march from the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle in Central Jakarta. One of the larger groups involved in May Day this year is the Indonesian People's United Resistance (PPRI, an alliance of 14 trade unions).
In commemorating May Day, the PPRI said that it is seeking working condition reforms for workers and labourers. In addition to trade unions, PPRI also includes the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) and several extra-parliamentary youth organisations such as the Indonesian Youth Front for Struggle (FPPI) and the Indonesian Student Union (SMI).
In a leaflet, the PPRI said that the administration of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Boediono is a capitalist regime and accused it of failing to bring prosperity to the ordinary people, particularly the working class.
Meanwhile the national coordinator of the FPPI, Ferry Widodo, said that this year's May Day represents an effort to united the people's movements to resist oppression by the state. "Currently the state is committing more violence, particularly through the policies the government is issuing", said Widodo.
The demonstrators from AJI meanwhile, who brought theatrical props to the action such as a miniature jail, called for improvement to welfare for journalists. They also demanded the freedom for journalists to form trade unions and organise. (K-2/Kahfi)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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*** CLASH IN TANGERANG
JUDUL: Buruh Saling Pukul dengan Polisi di Bandara Soekarno Hatta
SUMBER: Okezone - Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 13:40 wib
Hasan Kurniawan, Tangerang - Ribuan buruh, tani dan nelayan yang tergabung dalam Front Oposisi Rakyat Indonesia (Fori) terlibat bentrok dengan polisi gabungan dari Polres Bandara dan Polres Metro Tangerang.
Dalam bentrok itu, beberapa aktivis buruh yang terdiri dari wanita dan orang dewasa terkena pukulan kayu dan tameng petugas.
Sementara di belakang blokade garis depan polisi gabungan, petugas Brimob Kelapa Dua sudah menyiapkan satu unit mobil water canon dan senjata gas air mata.
Bentrok pertama antara buruh dengan polisi gabungan ini, terjadi saat ribuan buruh mendesak maju memaksa ke daerah bandara. Petugas yang emosional membalas aksi itu dengan pentungan kayu rotan dan dorongan tameng.
Kendati begitu, massa aksi tetap diam dan bentrokan tidak meluas. Berdasarkan pengamatan di lapangan, situasi masih mamanas dan gesekan kecil antara petugas gabungan dengan massa aksi pun masih terlihat. (abe)
<http://news.okezone.com/read/
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Workers and students unite for May Day in Bandung
Okezone.com - May 1, 2011
Mahasiswa & Buruh Bersatu Unjuk Rasa di Bandung -- Okezone. Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 <http://news.okezone.com/read/
Iman Herdiana, Bandung -- Hundreds of students and workers from the People's Struggle Front (FPR) held a protest action in front of the West Java provincial government offices in Bandung today to commemorate International Labour Day.
The protest action started at around 10am with demonstrators from trade unions and student organisations from throughout Bandung giving speeches demanding welfare improvements for farm and plantation labourers, factory workers, the unemployed and students.
"Today is a momentum for farm and plantation labourers, factory workers, students, who are still in poverty. Let us demand the right to a decent life, which to this day the government has never provided", said one of the speakers.
"We have land, our land is stolen. We work hard and are wages are cut. Our young people have no employment", said the students and workers as they sung songs of labour struggle.
Action coordinator Hechtor Situmorang from the Indonesian National Students Movement (GMNI) said that there is currently no National Social Security Program (SJSN), but that this could be applied if the Social Insurance Management Agency (BPJS) had a legal umbrella.
"We demand that the House of Representatives ratify the law regulating the BPJS. Because if the BPJS law is ratified, it would no just be workers that benefit but there would be accident insurance and healthcare for the people in general", said Situmorang. (abe)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Students in Bali condemn government for failing migrant workers
Okezone.com - May 1, 2011
Buruh Bali Absen Peringati May Day -- Okezone. Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 <http://news.okezone.com/read/
Rohmat, Denpasar -- The commemoration of International Labour Day in Bali was commemorated by a number of different student organisations. Workers however were absent from the protest.
At around 10am, scores of students marched from the Udayana University campus in the capital Denpasar towards the Sudirman and Dewi Sartika intersection. Along the way they stopped to give speeches in the middle of the road in which they condemned the government for failing to pay attention to the fate of migrant workers.
"Workers are still oppressed. The packet of Department of Labour and Transmigration laws have further marginalised workers", said People's Alliance for Democracy and Human Rights (Ardham) public relations officer Hairul during a break in the action. Moreover the laws regulate outsourcing or contract labour, which clearly harms workers.
According to the students, there is no political will on the part of the government to take concrete action to improve workers' welfare. They added that the packet of three labour laws fail to side with workers and only benefits employers.
"The administration of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Boediono has failed to bring prosperity, as proven by the migrant workers in Saudi Arabia that were abandoned just like that without protection. Not to mention workers in Indonesia working in the factories with low wages and being robbed by the owners of capital", asserted Hairul.
Unfortunately, the commemoration of May Day, which was organised by the Udayana University Student Executive Council (BEM), was not joined by Balinese workers.
In addition to giving speeches, they also handed out leaflets to passing drivers containing a statement of six demands including opposing contract labour systems and outsourcing and rejecting mass sackings.
(ful)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Women workers in Bandung demand right to breastfeed
Okezone.com - May 1, 2011
Buruh Perempuan Tuntut Hak Menyusui - Okezone - Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 <http://news.okezone.com/read/
Iman Herdiana, Bandung -- The West Java provincial government office in Bandung has again been the target of hundreds of workers with around 500 people from the Indonesian Trade Union Congress Alliance (KASBI) besieging the Gedung Sate building.
The protesters arrived at around 10am with most wearing red T-shirts. The demonstration was also marked by a theatrical action in which several workers were smeared with red ink to symbolise blood and their oppression by employers and the authorities.
Protesters also took turns in giving speeches including Enung Wiwin from KASBI Majalaya. "Women workers are the pillars of the country, it's time for women to be active and lead. The tap of freedom is open. Workers organisations must take care of their members. Don't be defeated by employers", said Wiwin in a speech.
According to Wiwin, the fate of workers, particularly women workers, depends on the factory environment and the strength of workers. "If women workers are consistent in demanding their rights, they are sure of being able to resist pressure", Wiwin told journalists.
Although Wiwin conceded that the conditions at her factory were relatively good, one important right has not been fulfilled, namely the right to breastfeed. "Almost none of the women workers have obtained the right to breastfeed. So for the whole eight hours of work, there is no time to breastfeed and no special room for breastfeeding", she said. (ful)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Surrounded by razor wire, parliament besieged by hundreds of workers
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Dibarikade Kawat Berduri, Gedung DPR Diserbu Ratusan Pendemo - detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Laurencius Simanjuntak, Jakarta -- Even though its occupants are in recess, the House of Representatives (DPR) building in Central Jakarta was the target of around 150 protesters commemorating Labour Day.
The demonstrators, who wore grey T-shirts and began arriving in buses at around 10am, gave speeches and unfurled flags. There was no additional security provided, but a 200-metre long razor-wire baracade had been setup up in front of the DPR guarded by around 20 police officers.
"The plan today was for 15 thousand people to come. In fact we have a permit for 15 thousand", said Metal, Electronic and Machinery Trade Union-All Indonesia Workers Union Federation (SPLEM-SPSI) action coordinator.
The demonstrators appeared united in their demands opposing outsourcing, rejecting set work shifts, calling for the ratification of the Social Insurance Management Agency draft law (RUU BPJS), demanding that May 1 to be declared a national holiday and calling for the repeal of Labour Ministry Regulation 1/2005 on staged achievement of the reasonable living cost index. (gah/fay)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Hundreds of workers in Jakarta descend on Labour Ministry
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Ratusan Buruh Geruduk Kemenakertrans, Lalu Lintas Tetap Lancar -- detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Suci Dian Firani, Jakarta -- In addition to demonstrating at the State Palace and House of Representatives (DPR) building, hundreds of workers also commemorated May Day by descending on the Department of Labour and Transmigration (Kemenakertrans) office demanding welfare improvements.
The demonstrators from the National Trade Union (SPN) began arriving a the Department of Labour offices in Central Jakarta at around 12.45pm where they immediately began giving speeches from a pickup truck.
"We are warning the government about the Social Insurance Management Agency (SJSN) law which since 2004 is yet to be implemented, we also reject outsourcing systems and demand pension payments", Trade Union Association (PSP) chairperson Sunadri told journalists.
The protest action, which was watched over by around 400 police officers proceeded peacefully. The 50 or so buses used to transport the workers, which were parked along the side of the road, did not disrupt the flow of traffic.
In addition to protest actions in the capital Jakarta, May Day commemorations were also held in other cities such as Yogyakarta and Makassar. (adi/fay)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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May Day heats up in Jakarta after protesters set fire to tyres
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Ban Dibakar di Depan Istana, Aksi Hari Buruh Sempat Memanas - DetikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Febrina Ayu Scottiati, Jakarta -- A peaceful commemoration of Labour Day in front of the State Palace in Jakarta became heated after protesters set fire to five tyres at around 12.15pm forcing police to deploy anti-riot troops.
Two police officers equipped with fire fighting equipment attempted to extinguish the fires, which were generating a thick black smoke. It took around 15 minutes for the pair to completely put out the fires.
As a result, around 50 anti-riot troops wearing black uniforms, helmets and armed with truncheons were deployed to anticipate any undesirable incidents and setup a barbed-wire blockade.
"We did not have any plans to set fire to tyres in front of the Palace. Whoever set fire to the tyres was not one of our demonstrators", said the action coordinator speaking from atop an open truck.
By around 12.45pm the atmosphere returned to normal with around 5,000 demonstrators from various labour organisation who packed Jl. Medan Merdeka Utara as far as Gambir train station listening to speeches from the from their respective leaders. (gah/fay)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Police blockade prevents Makassar workers from occupying airport
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Dicegat Aparat Masuk Bandara, Buruh di Makassar Membubarkan Diri -- detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Muhammad Nur Abdurrahman, Jakarta -- Around 1,000 workers in the South Sulawesi provincial capital of Makassar disbursed after protesters were prevented from entering the Sultan Hasanuddin international airport by a police blockade in front of the airport entrance.
Prior to dispersing, the protesters from the Indonesian People's Opposition Front (FORI) were involved in a scuffle with police when they tried to force their way through the blockade.
"We wanted the demonstrating workers to occupy the airport, because the airport is a vital state object and we wanted our demands to be heard, because we were tired of [demonstrating at the] Regional House of Representatives and the governor's office. Our voices were not being heard there", said FORI field coordinator Muchtar Guntur in a speech in front of the police blockade.
After failing to break through the blockade the workers disbursed with Guntur pledging that they would return at a later time. Other workers meanwhile held an action at Makassar industrial Zone. (mna/gun)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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May Day protests in Yogya call for end to outsourcing, contract labour
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Malioboro Disesaki Buruh dan Mahasiswa, Lalin Dialihkan -- detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 11:28 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Bagus Kurniawan, Yogyakarta -- Thousands of workers and students from a variety of organisations in the Central Java city of Yogyakarta commemorated International Labour Day or May Day today demanding wage increases and social welfare.
Among others, the demonstration was joined by protesters from the Yogyakarta Workers Alliance (ABY), the Media Workers Union (SPM) and the Independent Trade Union Federation (FSPM).
During the action, the thousands of protesters packed the length of the Jl. Malioboro area of central Yogyakarta forcing traffic to be diverted by police.
In speeches they condemned the government of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Boediono saying they had failed to bring prosperity to the ordinary people.
FSPM action coordinator Ali Prasetyo said in a speech that workers reject the use of labour outsourcing and called for a national workers insurance scheme. "Abolish and revoke contract systems and contract labour", said Prasetyo.
The demonstration was closely watched over by hundreds of police officers who were placed on alert at important locations such as the Pertamina state-owned oil company offices, the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) and the Yogyakarta Governor's office. (bgs/gah)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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May Day actions centered on Malioboro, Yogya on state of high-alert
Tempo Interactive - May 1, 2011
Malioboro Jadi Pusat Aksi May Day, Yogya Siaga Satu - TEMPO Interaktif - Minggu, 01 Mei 2011 <http://www.tempointeraktif.
Addi Mawahibun Idhom, Yogyakarta -- Jalan Malioboro in Central Java city of Yogyakarta was the focus today for International Labour Day 2011 or May Day commemorations by six different groups of protesters voicing a number of different demands.
The first action was held by hundreds of protesters from the Yogyakarta Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) who held a long-march from the Yogyakarta Regional House of Representative (DPRD) building to the governor's office at the Gedung Agung building rejecting low wages and calling for the formation of a media trade union. A second group of protesters later joined the protest giving speeches and holding a theatrical action.
A second demonstration by the Yogyakarta Labour Alliance (ABY), which involved workers, domestic workers and students, demanded the immediate ratification of the Social Insurance Management Agency (SJSN) law and rejected contract labour systems.
Several meters south of the ABY and AJI protesters, was a demonstration by dozens of people from the Kulonprogo branch of the Volunteers of Democracy in Struggle (Repdem). In addition to giving speeches rejecting low wages and outsourcing, they also held a theatrical action involving five people chained to together and entirely covered with white paint.
Meanwhile, hundreds of people from the Yogyakarta Solidarity Committee Federation of Indonesian Independent Workers (KF SBII) held an action a short distance north of the ABY and AJI protest. They also held a long-march to the Yogyakarta DPRD. In a press release the KF SBII rejected the politics of low wages, demanded the abolition of outsourcing, called for criminal punishment of companies violating the 2003 labour law, demanded that Labour Office supervision reports be published and called for a regional regulation to protect Yogyakarta workers.
Demonstrating in front of the Malioboro Mall, scores of protesters from the Carrefour Indonesia Trade Union (SPCI) and the Indonesian Trade Union Congress Alliance (KASBI) commemorated May Day by blockading the entire road. They also unfurled red-banners with demands such as "Reject outsourcing labour systems" and "Reject neoliberalism".
Meanwhile, scores of students commemorated May Day by holding a sit-in in front of the Yogyakarta provincial government offices in Kepatihan. The protesters, who came from the Yogyakarta Student Union (SMY) unfurled banners with demands rejecting low wages and calling for increases to the provincial minimum wage (UMP).
In an official announcement, the Yogyakarta regional police said they had enacted a state of high alert for Yogyakarta on May 1 and deployed 1,643 police officers to watch over the commemoration of May Day and at various entertainment spots and places of worship. It is estimated that 3,382 people will commemorate May Day throughout the Special Province of Yogyakarta today.
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Roundup of May Day protest actions in Indonesia
Workers in Semarang say government sides with capitalists, not workers - CyberNews. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of people from groups such as the National Workers Union (SPN) and the Indonesian People's United Resistance (PPRI) commemorated International Labour Day (May Day) on Sunday in the Central Java provincial capital of Semarang.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers alliance calls for improved working conditions - Komhukum. May 1, 2011
Thousands of workers are still demonstrating at the State Palace on Jl. Merdeka Barat in Central Jakarta demanding reforms to working conditions.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Journalists in Aceh call for improved safety guarantees and welfare - Media Indonesia. May 1, 2011
Commemorating International Labour Day, scores of mass media workers in the Acehnese provincial of Banda Aceh held a peaceful action condemning violence against journalists on Sunday.Hundreds of activists and workers in the Lampung provincial capital of Bandar Lampung took to the city's street on International Labour Day.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Activists and workers in Lampung say workers' rights being trampled on - Republika. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of activists and workers in the Lampung provincial capital of Bandar Lampung took to the city's street on International Labour Day.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
May Day actions centered on Malioboro, Yogya on state of high-alert - Tempo Interactive. May 1, 2011
Jalan Malioboro in Central Java city of Yogyakarta was the focus today for International Labour Day 2011 or May Day commemorations by six different groups of protesters voicing a number of different demands.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
May Day protests in Yogya call for end to outsourcing, contract labour - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
Thousands of workers and students from a variety of organisations in the Central Java city of Yogyakarta commemorated International Labour Day or May Day today demanding wage increases and social welfare.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Police blockade prevents Makassar workers from occupying airport - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
Around 1,000 workers in the South Sulawesi provincial capital of Makassar disbursed after protesters were prevented from entering the Sultan Hasanuddin international airport by a police blockade in front of the airport entrance.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Women workers in Bandung demand right to breastfeed - Okezone.com. May 1, 2011
The West Java provincial government office in Bandung has again been the target of hundreds of workers with around 500 people from the Indonesian Trade Union Congress Alliance (KASBI) besieging the Gedung Sate building.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
May Day heats up in Jakarta after protesters set fire to tyres - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
A peaceful commemoration of Labour Day in front of the State Palace in Jakarta became heated after protesters set fire to five tyres at around 12.15pm forcing police to deploy anti-riot troops.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers and students unite for May Day in Bandung - Okezone.com. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of students and workers from the People's Struggle Front (FPR) held a protest action in front of the West Java provincial government offices in Bandung today to commemorate International Labour Day.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Hundreds of workers in Jakarta descend on Labour Ministry - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
In addition to demonstrating at the State Palace and House of Representatives (DPR) building, hundreds of workers also commemorated May Day by descending on the Department of Labour and Transmigration (Kemenakertrans) offices demanding welfare improvements.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers in Sukabumi say they have no time to perform ritual prayers - Pikiran Rakyat. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of workers from the Sukabumi regency National Trade Union (SPN) in West Java commemorated International May day at the Sukabumi regional government offices.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Surrounded by razor wire, parliament besieged by hundreds of workers - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
Even though its occupants are in recess, the House of Representatives (DPR) building in Central Jakarta was the target of around 150 protesters commemorating Labour Day.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Students in Bali condemn government for failing migrant workers - Okezone.com. May 1, 2011
The commemoration of International Labour Day in Bali was commemorated by a number of different student organisations. Workers however were absent from the protest.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers call for cancelation of ASEAN-China free trade agreement - VIVAnews. May 1, 2011
A workers action commemorating International Labour Day or May Day at the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta also demanded the cancelation of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA).
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers in Purwokerto commemorate May Day with 'sleep in' - Media Indonesia. May 1, 2011
At least 150 people from the People's Struggle Front (FPR) held a demonstration to commemorate International Labour day at the Purwokerto town square in Central Java on Sunday.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Boyolali workers reject contract labour, call for women workers' rights - Solo Post. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of workers from a number of different companies in Boyolali, Central Java, held a peaceful action commemorating May Day on Sunday.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Solo workers commemorate May Day by 'destroying the walls of capital' - CyberNews. May 1, 2011
During a demonstration led by students from the Surakarta (Solo) Muhammadiyah University (MS) and the Solo Solidarity Trade Union Federation (FSBSK), the protesters deplored employers and the government for failing to pay heed to the fate of workers.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers clash with police at Jakarta airport - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
A clash broke out between workers and police at the rear entrance to the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Sunday when police refused to allow protesting from the Indonesian People's Opposition Front (FORI) from entering the airport.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Aksi Ricuh, Buruh Mau Masuk ke Bandara Soekarno Hatta - detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Dira Derby, Jakarta – A clash broke out between workers and police at the rear entrance to the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Sunday when police refused to allow protesting from the Indonesian People's Opposition Front (FORI) from entering the airport.
Wearing red uniforms and carrying flags, banners, posters and megaphones, the workers gave speeches along the length of the road leading to the airport. Despite being blocked by police the demonstrators were determined to continue the demonstration inside the airport.
When the workers came face-to-face with the police blockade a clash broke out with demonstrators and police pushing and shoving each other and the two sides coming to blows. The scuffle did not last long however and protest leaders and the police were eventually able to calm the protesters down.
In speeches the workers demanding that the government abolish contract labour systems or outsourcing, which they said means that workers have no job security.
"Contract workers are very vulnerable to intimidation or even dismissals when there are problems with the company or wish to be involved in a trade union. So we will besiege and occupy the Soekarno-Hatta airport", said Rendra, one of the workers.
As of 2pm the protest action was still continuing resulting in severe traffic congestion at the M1 toll road gate in the direction of Tangerang city. (gah/gah)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
------------------------------
Solo workers commemorate May Day by 'destroying walls of capital'
CyberNews - May 1, 2011
Nasib Kaum Buruh Masih Mengenaskan - CyberNews. 01 Mei 2011 <http://suaramerdeka.com/v1/
Solo -- Commemorating International Labour Day on May 1, two protest actions were held by workers and students in the Central City of Solo on Sunday.
During a demonstration led by students from the Surakarta (Solo) Muhammadiyah University (MS) and the Solo Solidarity Trade Union Federation (FSBSK), the protesters deplored employers and the government for failing to pay heed to the fate of workers.
They also held a theatrical action at the UMS campus intersection on Jl. Ahmad Yani depicting the suffering of Indonesian workers. "Mercy boss, mercy boss. We're working as hard as we can", cried Sutanto, Ipung and Tri Purwanto as they played the part of workers while Iwan Setiawan, who was portrayed as an employer trampled on their heads.
During the action the protesters read out a number of demands including rejecting contract labour or outsourcing, called for a decent wage for workers in line with the reasonable living cost index (KHL) and criticised labour laws for failing to side with workers.
The action descended into chaos when a scuffle broke out with police after demonstrators destroyed a theatrical prop in the form of a two-metre high bamboo cone-shaped building symbolising the employers' empire. "Destroy the capitalists' walls, destroy them", said one of the demonstrators as they shouted long live workers and argued with police.
Separately, around 50 workers from the Surakarta city and Sukoharjo regency branches of National Trade Union (SPN) held a demonstration at the Gladag traffic circle demanding justice for workers. Emphasising four points, the workers rejected outsourcing system, demanding a reasonable wage, called for revisions to the Ministry of Labour Regulation Number 17/2004 and the upholding of labour laws, which they said employers and the government had failed to address to this day.
"[Wages] in Solo and surrounding areas are still not adequate, employees' wages are only 826,000 rupiah per month. When we conducted a survey in later March 2010 in cooperation with the AKKK (Occupational Health and Safety Program, AK3) it [should] be at least 1,400,000 rupiah per month. Bearing in mind the increasing cost of living", said SPN Sukoharjo chairperson Kuwadi Mulyadi. (Asep Abdullah/CN26/JBSM)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
------------------------------
Boyolali workers reject contract labour, call for women workers' rights
Solo Post - May 1, 2011
Ratusan buruh di Boyolali peringati May Day - Solopos.com. 1 Mei 2011 <http://www.solopos.com/2011/
Boyolali – Hundreds of workers from a number of different companies in Boyolali, Central Java, held a peaceful action commemorating May Day on Sunday.
During the action, the workers drove around the city on motorbikes starting from the National Trade Union (SPN) offices on Jl. Pahlawan and ending up at the Labour, Transmigration and Social Affairs Offices (Disnakertransos) where they were received by Disnakertransos head Ir Mulyatno and office officials.
After giving speeches at the Disnakertransos, the workers then continued the action at a number of companies in the Mojosongo and Teras sub-districts.
In their demands the SPN called for revisions to the Law Number 3/1992 on the Workers Insurance Scheme and Law Number 2/2004 on the Settlement of Industrial Disputes. They also rejected contract labour systems and called for the enforcement of labour laws and the fulfillment of women workers' rights. (fid)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Workers in Purwokerto commemorate May Day with 'sleep in'
Media Indonesia - May 1, 2011
Peringati Hari Buruh, Massa Tiduran di Jalan - Mediaindonesia.com. Minggu, 01 Mei 2011 <http://www.mediaindonesia.
Liliek Dharmawan, Purwokerto – At least 150 people from the People's Struggle Front (FPR) held a demonstration to commemorate International Labour day at the Purwokerto town square in Central Java on Sunday.
During the action, the protesters even held a "sleep in" action on Jl. Jenderal Soedirman in front of the square in which 10 activists threw themselves down on the hot asphalt while the other demonstrators shouted their support for the workers' demands. As a result police were forced to redirect traffic passing by the square.
In a speech action coordinator Widi said that the workers are demanding wages in line with a reasonable living standard. "We also call for the abolition of contract work systems, protection for migrant workers and the annulment of laws that smack of neoliberalism", asserted Widi.
The action, which was also supported by a number of student organisations and NGOs, began at around 10am and was closely guarded by police. The demonstration action was ended with the release of balloons into the air. (OL-12)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Workers in Sukabumi say they have no time to perform ritual prayers
Pikiran Rakyat - May 1, 2011
Ratusan Ribu Buruh Datangi Pendopo Sukabumi - Pikiran Rakyat. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.pikiran-rakyat.
Sukabumi (PRLM) – Hundreds of workers from the Sukabumi regency National Trade Union (SPN) in West Java commemorated International May day at the Sukabumi regional government offices.
Arriving on motorbikes, the workers then forced their way into the government office grounds. In anticipation of the workers' arrival, the Sukabumi city police and military personal were on alert and prevented the workers from entering main audience hall.
"In addition to concerns over welfare and healthcare workers are to this day still being neglected. We are asking for workers to be given enough time to pray. Because for almost all of them, the opportunities to pray are very limited. We find it difficult to perform our ritual prayers five times a day", said Hera Iskandar, the chairperson of the Sukabumi SPN regional leadership board. (A-162/A-120)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Workers call for cancelation of ASEAN-China free trade agreement
VIVAnews - May 1, 2011
Buruh Tuntut Batalkan ACFTA - VIVAnews. Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 <http://bisnis.vivanews.com/
A workers action commemorating International Labour Day or May Day at the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta also demanded the cancelation of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA).
"Cancel the free trade agreement with China (ACFTA), because it is paralysing the people's economy in all sectors of the economy", said National Labour Union (SPN) central leadership board chairperson Bambang Wirahyoso during the action on Sunday.
In addition to demanding the cancelation of the ACFTA, the protesting workers at the DPR also called for the immediate ratification of the Social Insurance Management Agency (BPJS) law and the eradication of the judicial mafia in the Supreme Court, particularly in relation to industrial relations cases.
A short time ago Industry Minister MS Hidayat reported that the free trade deal with China had resulted in a 25 percent decline in domestic production. Factors such as the un-readiness of local employers, particularly in relation to product competitiveness, were cited as one of the causes. Rampant smuggling is damaging domestic markets.
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
------------------------------
Activists and workers in Lampung say workers' rights being trampled on
Republika - May 1, 2011
Ratusan Aktivis dan Buruh di Lampung Turun ke Jalan – Republika. Sunday, 01 May 2011 <http://www.republika.co.id/
Mursalin Yasland, Bandar Lampung – Hundreds of activists and workers in the Lampung provincial capital of Bandar Lampung took to the city's street on International Labour Day.
The protesters started the action in front of a well known shopping centre in Bandar Lampung then marched towards the Elephant Monument traffic circle and rallied in front of the busiest shopping centre in the city. In addition to giving speeches, they also handed out leaflets with demands for more attention to be paid to workers' welfare and labour rights.
The 500 or so protesters came from the group Lampung People's Struggle (PRL), which is made up of 32 organisations or NGOs that support the struggle for better working conditions. "This is a peaceful action, to fight for workers' interests, which are increasingly languishing as their rights are trampled on by the hegemony of power", said one of the activists, Suryadi.
In another part of the city, the Bandar Lampung Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) also used May Day to convey their demands. In a press release the journalists called for safety guarantees and increased wages. AJI said that these demands are urgent in order that journalists can be more professional in carrying out their assignments.
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Journalists in Aceh call for improved safety guarantees and welfare
Media Indonesia - May 1, 2011
Peringati May Day, Wartawan Banda Aceh Gelar Aksi Damai - mediaindonesia.com. Minggu, 01 Mei 2011 <http://www.mediaindonesia.
Hendra Saputram Banda Aceh -- Commemorating International Labour Day, scores of mass media workers in the Acehnese provincial of Banda Aceh held a peaceful action condemning violence against journalists on Sunday.
During the action, which took place at the Simpang Lima traffic circle, the journalists also condemned an attack on Pidie Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) chairperson Rahmad Idris and an Analisa Daily journalist by a former Free Aceh Movement (GAM) member in Padang Tiji, Pidie.
In speeches the journalists called on the police to fully investigate cases of violence against journalists and try the perpetrators. The action, which was held by cross-media journalists in Aceh, also demanded better safety guarantees and welfare for journalists.
AJI Banda Aceh chairperson Mukhtaruddin Yakob said that welfare and the threat of violence is still the main problem faced by journalists in Indonesia.
"Many journalists are not paid decent wages by their media. Yet the risk in carrying out assignments is very high. There are still many journalists who are not yet covered by insurance by the media companies where they work. The low wages received by journalists make it difficult for them to work professionally, so not a few of them are forced to violate journalistic ethics", said Yakob.
AJI has record 66 cases of valence against journalists in 2010 and the Committee to Project Journalist includes Indonesia on the list of countries where journalists are at risk. (OL-12)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
------------------------------
Workers in Semarang say government sides with capitalists, not workers
CyberNews - May 1, 2011
May Day Macetkan Jalan - CyberNews. 01 Mei 2011 <http://suaramerdeka.com/v1/
Semarang -- Hundreds of people from groups such as the National Workers Union (SPN) and the Indonesian People's United Resistance (PPRI) commemorated International Labour Day (May Day) on Sunday in the Central Java provincial capital of Semarang.
The SPN held its action in the vicinity of Jl. Pahlawan while the PPRI started their action at the Baiturrahman Mosque in Simpanglima then marched to Jl. Pahlawan.
The march by the PPRI, which is composed of the SMI, the Lengkong Youth, the Indonesian Cultural Society Union (Sebumi), Indonesian Parliamentary Youth (PPI) and the Indonesia People’s Movement (GRI), took up the entire road forcing vehicle behind to trail slowly behind. The march resulted in several minutes of traffic congestion.
One of the PPRI activists, Rendra, said that the current administration does not side with workers but with capitalists. "We are demanding three things, the nationalisation of state assets for the people's welfare, building a people-based national industry and the implementation of genuine agrarian reform", he said.
As of 11am the PPRI protesters were still holding free speeches on Jl. Pahlawan. The previous night they also held a cultural contemplation at the same location. The action was guarded by hundreds of police. (Adhitia A, Krisnaji Satriawan/CN14/JBSM)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Workers alliance calls for improved working conditions
Komhukum - May 1, 2011
Peringati May Day, Ribuan Buruh Menyemut Di Istana - Komhukum. 1 Mai 2011 <http://www.komhukum.com/
Komhukum (Jakarta) -- Thousands of workers are still demonstrating at the State Palace on Jl. Merdeka Barat in Central Jakarta demanding reforms to working conditions.
The protesting workers, who had been gathering since this morning, had earlier held a long-march from the Hotel Indonesia traffic circle in Central Jakarta. One of the larger groups involved in May Day this year is the Indonesian People's United Resistance (PPRI, an alliance of 14 trade unions).
In commemorating May Day, the PPRI said that it is seeking working condition reforms for workers and labourers. In addition to trade unions, PPRI also includes the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) and several extra-parliamentary youth organisations such as the Indonesian Youth Front for Struggle (FPPI) and the Indonesian Student Union (SMI).
In a leaflet, the PPRI said that the administration of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Boediono is a capitalist regime and accused it of failing to bring prosperity to the ordinary people, particularly the working class.
Meanwhile the national coordinator of the FPPI, Ferry Widodo, said that this year's May Day represents an effort to united the people's movements to resist oppression by the state. "Currently the state is committing more violence, particularly through the policies the government is issuing", said Widodo.
The demonstrators from AJI meanwhile, who brought theatrical props to the action such as a miniature jail, called for improvement to welfare for journalists. They also demanded the freedom for journalists to form trade unions and organise. (K-2/Kahfi)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
------------------------------
*** CLASH IN TANGERANG
JUDUL: Buruh Saling Pukul dengan Polisi di Bandara Soekarno Hatta
SUMBER: Okezone - Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 13:40 wib
Hasan Kurniawan, Tangerang - Ribuan buruh, tani dan nelayan yang tergabung dalam Front Oposisi Rakyat Indonesia (Fori) terlibat bentrok dengan polisi gabungan dari Polres Bandara dan Polres Metro Tangerang.
Dalam bentrok itu, beberapa aktivis buruh yang terdiri dari wanita dan orang dewasa terkena pukulan kayu dan tameng petugas.
Sementara di belakang blokade garis depan polisi gabungan, petugas Brimob Kelapa Dua sudah menyiapkan satu unit mobil water canon dan senjata gas air mata.
Bentrok pertama antara buruh dengan polisi gabungan ini, terjadi saat ribuan buruh mendesak maju memaksa ke daerah bandara. Petugas yang emosional membalas aksi itu dengan pentungan kayu rotan dan dorongan tameng.
Kendati begitu, massa aksi tetap diam dan bentrokan tidak meluas. Berdasarkan pengamatan di lapangan, situasi masih mamanas dan gesekan kecil antara petugas gabungan dengan massa aksi pun masih terlihat. (abe)
<http://news.okezone.com/read/
------------------------------
Workers and students unite for May Day in Bandung
Okezone.com - May 1, 2011
Mahasiswa & Buruh Bersatu Unjuk Rasa di Bandung -- Okezone. Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 <http://news.okezone.com/read/
Iman Herdiana, Bandung -- Hundreds of students and workers from the People's Struggle Front (FPR) held a protest action in front of the West Java provincial government offices in Bandung today to commemorate International Labour Day.
The protest action started at around 10am with demonstrators from trade unions and student organisations from throughout Bandung giving speeches demanding welfare improvements for farm and plantation labourers, factory workers, the unemployed and students.
"Today is a momentum for farm and plantation labourers, factory workers, students, who are still in poverty. Let us demand the right to a decent life, which to this day the government has never provided", said one of the speakers.
"We have land, our land is stolen. We work hard and are wages are cut. Our young people have no employment", said the students and workers as they sung songs of labour struggle.
Action coordinator Hechtor Situmorang from the Indonesian National Students Movement (GMNI) said that there is currently no National Social Security Program (SJSN), but that this could be applied if the Social Insurance Management Agency (BPJS) had a legal umbrella.
"We demand that the House of Representatives ratify the law regulating the BPJS. Because if the BPJS law is ratified, it would no just be workers that benefit but there would be accident insurance and healthcare for the people in general", said Situmorang. (abe)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Students in Bali condemn government for failing migrant workers
Okezone.com - May 1, 2011
Buruh Bali Absen Peringati May Day -- Okezone. Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 <http://news.okezone.com/read/
Rohmat, Denpasar -- The commemoration of International Labour Day in Bali was commemorated by a number of different student organisations. Workers however were absent from the protest.
At around 10am, scores of students marched from the Udayana University campus in the capital Denpasar towards the Sudirman and Dewi Sartika intersection. Along the way they stopped to give speeches in the middle of the road in which they condemned the government for failing to pay attention to the fate of migrant workers.
"Workers are still oppressed. The packet of Department of Labour and Transmigration laws have further marginalised workers", said People's Alliance for Democracy and Human Rights (Ardham) public relations officer Hairul during a break in the action. Moreover the laws regulate outsourcing or contract labour, which clearly harms workers.
According to the students, there is no political will on the part of the government to take concrete action to improve workers' welfare. They added that the packet of three labour laws fail to side with workers and only benefits employers.
"The administration of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Boediono has failed to bring prosperity, as proven by the migrant workers in Saudi Arabia that were abandoned just like that without protection. Not to mention workers in Indonesia working in the factories with low wages and being robbed by the owners of capital", asserted Hairul.
Unfortunately, the commemoration of May Day, which was organised by the Udayana University Student Executive Council (BEM), was not joined by Balinese workers.
In addition to giving speeches, they also handed out leaflets to passing drivers containing a statement of six demands including opposing contract labour systems and outsourcing and rejecting mass sackings.
(ful)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
------------------------------
Women workers in Bandung demand right to breastfeed
Okezone.com - May 1, 2011
Buruh Perempuan Tuntut Hak Menyusui - Okezone - Minggu, 1 Mei 2011 <http://news.okezone.com/read/
Iman Herdiana, Bandung -- The West Java provincial government office in Bandung has again been the target of hundreds of workers with around 500 people from the Indonesian Trade Union Congress Alliance (KASBI) besieging the Gedung Sate building.
The protesters arrived at around 10am with most wearing red T-shirts. The demonstration was also marked by a theatrical action in which several workers were smeared with red ink to symbolise blood and their oppression by employers and the authorities.
Protesters also took turns in giving speeches including Enung Wiwin from KASBI Majalaya. "Women workers are the pillars of the country, it's time for women to be active and lead. The tap of freedom is open. Workers organisations must take care of their members. Don't be defeated by employers", said Wiwin in a speech.
According to Wiwin, the fate of workers, particularly women workers, depends on the factory environment and the strength of workers. "If women workers are consistent in demanding their rights, they are sure of being able to resist pressure", Wiwin told journalists.
Although Wiwin conceded that the conditions at her factory were relatively good, one important right has not been fulfilled, namely the right to breastfeed. "Almost none of the women workers have obtained the right to breastfeed. So for the whole eight hours of work, there is no time to breastfeed and no special room for breastfeeding", she said. (ful)
[Abridged translation by James Balowski.]
------------------------------
Surrounded by razor wire, parliament besieged by hundreds of workers
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Dibarikade Kawat Berduri, Gedung DPR Diserbu Ratusan Pendemo - detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Laurencius Simanjuntak, Jakarta -- Even though its occupants are in recess, the House of Representatives (DPR) building in Central Jakarta was the target of around 150 protesters commemorating Labour Day.
The demonstrators, who wore grey T-shirts and began arriving in buses at around 10am, gave speeches and unfurled flags. There was no additional security provided, but a 200-metre long razor-wire baracade had been setup up in front of the DPR guarded by around 20 police officers.
"The plan today was for 15 thousand people to come. In fact we have a permit for 15 thousand", said Metal, Electronic and Machinery Trade Union-All Indonesia Workers Union Federation (SPLEM-SPSI) action coordinator.
The demonstrators appeared united in their demands opposing outsourcing, rejecting set work shifts, calling for the ratification of the Social Insurance Management Agency draft law (RUU BPJS), demanding that May 1 to be declared a national holiday and calling for the repeal of Labour Ministry Regulation 1/2005 on staged achievement of the reasonable living cost index. (gah/fay)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Hundreds of workers in Jakarta descend on Labour Ministry
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Ratusan Buruh Geruduk Kemenakertrans, Lalu Lintas Tetap Lancar -- detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Suci Dian Firani, Jakarta -- In addition to demonstrating at the State Palace and House of Representatives (DPR) building, hundreds of workers also commemorated May Day by descending on the Department of Labour and Transmigration (Kemenakertrans) office demanding welfare improvements.
The demonstrators from the National Trade Union (SPN) began arriving a the Department of Labour offices in Central Jakarta at around 12.45pm where they immediately began giving speeches from a pickup truck.
"We are warning the government about the Social Insurance Management Agency (SJSN) law which since 2004 is yet to be implemented, we also reject outsourcing systems and demand pension payments", Trade Union Association (PSP) chairperson Sunadri told journalists.
The protest action, which was watched over by around 400 police officers proceeded peacefully. The 50 or so buses used to transport the workers, which were parked along the side of the road, did not disrupt the flow of traffic.
In addition to protest actions in the capital Jakarta, May Day commemorations were also held in other cities such as Yogyakarta and Makassar. (adi/fay)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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May Day heats up in Jakarta after protesters set fire to tyres
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Ban Dibakar di Depan Istana, Aksi Hari Buruh Sempat Memanas - DetikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Febrina Ayu Scottiati, Jakarta -- A peaceful commemoration of Labour Day in front of the State Palace in Jakarta became heated after protesters set fire to five tyres at around 12.15pm forcing police to deploy anti-riot troops.
Two police officers equipped with fire fighting equipment attempted to extinguish the fires, which were generating a thick black smoke. It took around 15 minutes for the pair to completely put out the fires.
As a result, around 50 anti-riot troops wearing black uniforms, helmets and armed with truncheons were deployed to anticipate any undesirable incidents and setup a barbed-wire blockade.
"We did not have any plans to set fire to tyres in front of the Palace. Whoever set fire to the tyres was not one of our demonstrators", said the action coordinator speaking from atop an open truck.
By around 12.45pm the atmosphere returned to normal with around 5,000 demonstrators from various labour organisation who packed Jl. Medan Merdeka Utara as far as Gambir train station listening to speeches from the from their respective leaders. (gah/fay)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Police blockade prevents Makassar workers from occupying airport
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Dicegat Aparat Masuk Bandara, Buruh di Makassar Membubarkan Diri -- detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Muhammad Nur Abdurrahman, Jakarta -- Around 1,000 workers in the South Sulawesi provincial capital of Makassar disbursed after protesters were prevented from entering the Sultan Hasanuddin international airport by a police blockade in front of the airport entrance.
Prior to dispersing, the protesters from the Indonesian People's Opposition Front (FORI) were involved in a scuffle with police when they tried to force their way through the blockade.
"We wanted the demonstrating workers to occupy the airport, because the airport is a vital state object and we wanted our demands to be heard, because we were tired of [demonstrating at the] Regional House of Representatives and the governor's office. Our voices were not being heard there", said FORI field coordinator Muchtar Guntur in a speech in front of the police blockade.
After failing to break through the blockade the workers disbursed with Guntur pledging that they would return at a later time. Other workers meanwhile held an action at Makassar industrial Zone. (mna/gun)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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May Day protests in Yogya call for end to outsourcing, contract labour
Detik.com - May 1, 2011
Malioboro Disesaki Buruh dan Mahasiswa, Lalin Dialihkan -- detikNews. Minggu, 01/05/2011 11:28 <http://www.detiknews.com/
Bagus Kurniawan, Yogyakarta -- Thousands of workers and students from a variety of organisations in the Central Java city of Yogyakarta commemorated International Labour Day or May Day today demanding wage increases and social welfare.
Among others, the demonstration was joined by protesters from the Yogyakarta Workers Alliance (ABY), the Media Workers Union (SPM) and the Independent Trade Union Federation (FSPM).
During the action, the thousands of protesters packed the length of the Jl. Malioboro area of central Yogyakarta forcing traffic to be diverted by police.
In speeches they condemned the government of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Vice President Boediono saying they had failed to bring prosperity to the ordinary people.
FSPM action coordinator Ali Prasetyo said in a speech that workers reject the use of labour outsourcing and called for a national workers insurance scheme. "Abolish and revoke contract systems and contract labour", said Prasetyo.
The demonstration was closely watched over by hundreds of police officers who were placed on alert at important locations such as the Pertamina state-owned oil company offices, the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) and the Yogyakarta Governor's office. (bgs/gah)
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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May Day actions centered on Malioboro, Yogya on state of high-alert
Tempo Interactive - May 1, 2011
Malioboro Jadi Pusat Aksi May Day, Yogya Siaga Satu - TEMPO Interaktif - Minggu, 01 Mei 2011 <http://www.tempointeraktif.
Addi Mawahibun Idhom, Yogyakarta -- Jalan Malioboro in Central Java city of Yogyakarta was the focus today for International Labour Day 2011 or May Day commemorations by six different groups of protesters voicing a number of different demands.
The first action was held by hundreds of protesters from the Yogyakarta Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI) who held a long-march from the Yogyakarta Regional House of Representative (DPRD) building to the governor's office at the Gedung Agung building rejecting low wages and calling for the formation of a media trade union. A second group of protesters later joined the protest giving speeches and holding a theatrical action.
A second demonstration by the Yogyakarta Labour Alliance (ABY), which involved workers, domestic workers and students, demanded the immediate ratification of the Social Insurance Management Agency (SJSN) law and rejected contract labour systems.
Several meters south of the ABY and AJI protesters, was a demonstration by dozens of people from the Kulonprogo branch of the Volunteers of Democracy in Struggle (Repdem). In addition to giving speeches rejecting low wages and outsourcing, they also held a theatrical action involving five people chained to together and entirely covered with white paint.
Meanwhile, hundreds of people from the Yogyakarta Solidarity Committee Federation of Indonesian Independent Workers (KF SBII) held an action a short distance north of the ABY and AJI protest. They also held a long-march to the Yogyakarta DPRD. In a press release the KF SBII rejected the politics of low wages, demanded the abolition of outsourcing, called for criminal punishment of companies violating the 2003 labour law, demanded that Labour Office supervision reports be published and called for a regional regulation to protect Yogyakarta workers.
Demonstrating in front of the Malioboro Mall, scores of protesters from the Carrefour Indonesia Trade Union (SPCI) and the Indonesian Trade Union Congress Alliance (KASBI) commemorated May Day by blockading the entire road. They also unfurled red-banners with demands such as "Reject outsourcing labour systems" and "Reject neoliberalism".
Meanwhile, scores of students commemorated May Day by holding a sit-in in front of the Yogyakarta provincial government offices in Kepatihan. The protesters, who came from the Yogyakarta Student Union (SMY) unfurled banners with demands rejecting low wages and calling for increases to the provincial minimum wage (UMP).
In an official announcement, the Yogyakarta regional police said they had enacted a state of high alert for Yogyakarta on May 1 and deployed 1,643 police officers to watch over the commemoration of May Day and at various entertainment spots and places of worship. It is estimated that 3,382 people will commemorate May Day throughout the Special Province of Yogyakarta today.
[Slightly abridged translation by James Balowski.]
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Roundup of May Day protest actions in Indonesia
Workers in Semarang say government sides with capitalists, not workers - CyberNews. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of people from groups such as the National Workers Union (SPN) and the Indonesian People's United Resistance (PPRI) commemorated International Labour Day (May Day) on Sunday in the Central Java provincial capital of Semarang.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers alliance calls for improved working conditions - Komhukum. May 1, 2011
Thousands of workers are still demonstrating at the State Palace on Jl. Merdeka Barat in Central Jakarta demanding reforms to working conditions.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Journalists in Aceh call for improved safety guarantees and welfare - Media Indonesia. May 1, 2011
Commemorating International Labour Day, scores of mass media workers in the Acehnese provincial of Banda Aceh held a peaceful action condemning violence against journalists on Sunday.Hundreds of activists and workers in the Lampung provincial capital of Bandar Lampung took to the city's street on International Labour Day.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Activists and workers in Lampung say workers' rights being trampled on - Republika. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of activists and workers in the Lampung provincial capital of Bandar Lampung took to the city's street on International Labour Day.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
May Day actions centered on Malioboro, Yogya on state of high-alert - Tempo Interactive. May 1, 2011
Jalan Malioboro in Central Java city of Yogyakarta was the focus today for International Labour Day 2011 or May Day commemorations by six different groups of protesters voicing a number of different demands.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
May Day protests in Yogya call for end to outsourcing, contract labour - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
Thousands of workers and students from a variety of organisations in the Central Java city of Yogyakarta commemorated International Labour Day or May Day today demanding wage increases and social welfare.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Police blockade prevents Makassar workers from occupying airport - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
Around 1,000 workers in the South Sulawesi provincial capital of Makassar disbursed after protesters were prevented from entering the Sultan Hasanuddin international airport by a police blockade in front of the airport entrance.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Women workers in Bandung demand right to breastfeed - Okezone.com. May 1, 2011
The West Java provincial government office in Bandung has again been the target of hundreds of workers with around 500 people from the Indonesian Trade Union Congress Alliance (KASBI) besieging the Gedung Sate building.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
May Day heats up in Jakarta after protesters set fire to tyres - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
A peaceful commemoration of Labour Day in front of the State Palace in Jakarta became heated after protesters set fire to five tyres at around 12.15pm forcing police to deploy anti-riot troops.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers and students unite for May Day in Bandung - Okezone.com. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of students and workers from the People's Struggle Front (FPR) held a protest action in front of the West Java provincial government offices in Bandung today to commemorate International Labour Day.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Hundreds of workers in Jakarta descend on Labour Ministry - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
In addition to demonstrating at the State Palace and House of Representatives (DPR) building, hundreds of workers also commemorated May Day by descending on the Department of Labour and Transmigration (Kemenakertrans) offices demanding welfare improvements.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers in Sukabumi say they have no time to perform ritual prayers - Pikiran Rakyat. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of workers from the Sukabumi regency National Trade Union (SPN) in West Java commemorated International May day at the Sukabumi regional government offices.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Surrounded by razor wire, parliament besieged by hundreds of workers - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
Even though its occupants are in recess, the House of Representatives (DPR) building in Central Jakarta was the target of around 150 protesters commemorating Labour Day.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Students in Bali condemn government for failing migrant workers - Okezone.com. May 1, 2011
The commemoration of International Labour Day in Bali was commemorated by a number of different student organisations. Workers however were absent from the protest.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers call for cancelation of ASEAN-China free trade agreement - VIVAnews. May 1, 2011
A workers action commemorating International Labour Day or May Day at the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta also demanded the cancelation of the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA).
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers in Purwokerto commemorate May Day with 'sleep in' - Media Indonesia. May 1, 2011
At least 150 people from the People's Struggle Front (FPR) held a demonstration to commemorate International Labour day at the Purwokerto town square in Central Java on Sunday.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Boyolali workers reject contract labour, call for women workers' rights - Solo Post. May 1, 2011
Hundreds of workers from a number of different companies in Boyolali, Central Java, held a peaceful action commemorating May Day on Sunday.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Solo workers commemorate May Day by 'destroying the walls of capital' - CyberNews. May 1, 2011
During a demonstration led by students from the Surakarta (Solo) Muhammadiyah University (MS) and the Solo Solidarity Trade Union Federation (FSBSK), the protesters deplored employers and the government for failing to pay heed to the fate of workers.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
Workers clash with police at Jakarta airport - Detik.com. May 1, 2011
A clash broke out between workers and police at the rear entrance to the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Sunday when police refused to allow protesting from the Indonesian People's Opposition Front (FORI) from entering the airport.
<http://www.asia-pacific-
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