Said Iqbal unveils plan to overhaul Indonesia's labor system

Jakrta (ANTARA) - Presidential Special Adviser for Manpower and Labor Welfare Said Iqbal vowed to focus his new role as President Prabowo Subianto’s aide on advocating improved regulations on outsourcing and wages.

Addressing reporters after his inauguration, he highlighted his primary goal of advancing labor welfare through revisions to the Manpower Law.

“We need to ensure that the manpower bill stipulates the abolishment of outsourcing practices. If not possible, we should aim for at least restricting them to four or five types of work,” Iqbal remarked at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Monday.

Iqbal, who also serves as president of the Confederation of Indonesian Trade Unions (KSPI), said he is committed to strengthening workers’ purchasing power through fair and decent wages.

He noted that this goal aligns with the government’s target of achieving eight percent economic growth in the coming years.

“That is why decent wages are among the key issues that must be addressed soon and incorporated into the manpower bill,” Iqbal added.

He also highlighted efforts to expand inclusive welfare and social protection for both formal and informal workers.

In this context, he welcomed Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026, which adjusts ride-hailing commission structures in favor of drivers, as well as the recently passed Domestic Workers Protection Law.

President Prabowo formally appointed Iqbal as his adviser on labor welfare at the Presidential Palace on Monday afternoon.

Iqbal, also president of the Labor Party, was sworn in alongside National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Head Nanik S. Deyang and deputy heads Agustina Arumsari and Major General (Retd.) Trenggono. Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and several senior officials attended the ceremony.

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Translator: Prisca/Fathur, Tegar Nurfitra

Editor: M Razi Rahman

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