Palembang, KOTABARI.COM â Hundreds of workers held a protest in Palembang on Wednesday (18/12/2024), demanding a revision of the 2025 Provincial Sectoral Minimum Wage (UMSP) for South Sumatra. The protest was a response to the decision made by Acting Governor of South Sumatra, Elen Setiadi, who announced the UMSP on Wednesday (11/12).
The Chairman of the Federation of Trade Unions (FSB) for Commerce, Informatics, Finance, Banking, and Miscellaneous Industries (Nikeuba) of Palembang, Hermawan, stated that workers are calling for changes to the UMSP policy, which they believe is inconsistent with prior agreements.
“There are three main points in our demands today. First, we demand a revision of the Provincial Sectoral Minimum Wage. Second, we urge the immediate announcement of the UMP for districts/cities and their respective sectoral minimum wages,” Hermawan emphasized during the rally.
Only Three Sectors Announced
Hermawan explained that the Wage Council had initially proposed nine sectors to be included in the UMSP. However, the Acting Governor only approved three.
The three announced sectors are:
- Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries Sector
- Mining and Quarrying Sector
- Electricity, Gas, Steam/Hot Water, and Air Conditioning Sector
The provincial minimum wage (UMP) for South Sumatra was increased by 6.5%, reaching IDR 3,681,571. Meanwhile, the UMSP for the three announced sectors increased by 8% to IDR 3,733,424, which is IDR 52,000 higher than the UMP.
However, this decision sparked outrage as all parties in the UMSP Council, including government representatives, academics, and trade unions, had previously agreed on nine sectors.
Workers’ Demands
Workers argue that limiting the UMSP to only three sectors undermines the commitments made in earlier discussions. They urge the provincial government to revise the decision to ensure fair treatment for workers across all sectors.
The demonstration was peaceful, with workers delivering speeches to emphasize the need for change. They expressed hope that the government would reconsider its stance to achieve justice for workers throughout South Sumatra.