On Monday (February 17, 2025), hundreds of online motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers staged a demonstration in front of the Ministry of Manpower (Kemenaker) to demand a cash holiday allowance (THR). Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan met with the protesters and expressed his support for their demands.

Immanuel stated that requesting THR in cash is a reasonable and fair demand. "They are not asking for executive salaries or company shares. They are simply asking for their rights as workers on the streets, and that is fair in the eyes of the government," he said. He emphasized that negotiations with ride-hailing platforms such as Gojek, Grab, Maxim, and inDrive will be held to ensure that THR is given in cash rather than as food packages or incentives.

The government is also reviewing regulations regarding the employment status of ride-hailing drivers. Immanuel mentioned that the new rules could take the form of a ministerial regulation (Permen) or government regulation (PP), referring to labor policies in some European countries.

Ride-Hailing Platforms’ Responses

The ride-hailing companies responded differently to the demands.

Gojek stated that its partner drivers are independent workers with job flexibility, not full-time employees. However, the company remains committed to driver welfare by offering support programs, such as the Self-Sustaining Market Food Package and discussions with the Ministry of Manpower regarding a "Holiday Appreciation Fund."

Grab welcomed the government's attention and said it is coordinating with stakeholders to discuss the holiday allowance, which the company refers to as the Holiday Assistance Fund (BHR). "We hope the government can create a balanced policy that considers the long-term impact on the industry and the informal economy," said Grab Indonesia’s Chief of Public Affairs, Tirza Munusamy.

Maxim stated that it is currently focusing on a donation campaign for its drivers. Maxim’s Public Relations Specialist, Yuan Ifdal, expressed hope that the Ministry of Manpower would make an objective decision based on existing labor regulations.

The government warned that if negotiations with the companies fail, it may take strict measures. "If this remains difficult, I want to emphasize that the state has the power to enforce regulations. The government will not allow its citizens to be exploited," Immanuel asserted.

Despite the heavy rain, drivers remained firm in their demand that ride-hailing companies provide THR equivalent to one month’s wages before the Eid holiday.

PHOTO: TRIBUNNEWS/FAHDI

This article was created with AI assistance.