Hundreds of Batam workers united outside Batam City Hall on October 31, 2024, to demand a 30% wage increase for 2025 and the repeal of the Omnibus Law, which they claim undermines worker rights. The demonstration, led by the Batam People’s Coalition (KRB), called for immediate government action to ensure fair wages and labor protections for the island’s workforce.
The Batam People’s Coalition (KRB) organized a peaceful protest at Batam City Hall to call for labor reform and fair wages. Approximately at 11 a.m., hundreds gathered, displaying banners and signs to voice their demands for better working conditions, wage adjustments, and the repeal of recent labor regulations. Workers from various sectors, including industrial employees and online drivers, joined the protest.
The protesters gathered at two main locations—Batam City Hall and the Batam Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) offices. Led by Salimun, the KRB spokesperson, workers demanded that the acting Mayor of Batam address their concerns. “We expect the Mayor to make a decision today and sign our petition,” Salimun urged through loudspeakers from the coalition’s command vehicle, echoing calls for concrete action.
The demonstration gained official traction as representatives of the protesting workers entered City Hall for talks with government officials. During the dialogue, they emphasized the need for a fair 30% wage hike for 2025, a demand reflecting Batam’s rising living costs and the added pressures on household budgets. Workers highlighted that this increase was necessary for maintaining a reasonable quality of life in a rapidly growing industrial city.
Batam’s labor unions have expressed dissatisfaction with the 2023 Omnibus Law, which they argue compromises essential worker protections. Union leaders from the Federation of Indonesian Metal Workers (FSPMI) stated that current regulations weaken their rights, particularly concerning wage structures, job security, and representation. The KRB is pushing for its repeal, asserting that workers deserve policies prioritizing their rights.
Alongside workers, app-based drivers also made their voices heard. They called on companies like Grab, Gojek, and Maxim to adhere to recent governor decrees supporting fair conditions for drivers. The coalition highlighted the ongoing struggle of platform workers for fair treatment, demanding compliance with regulations that ensure equitable payment and rights.
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As the peaceful demonstration concluded at City Hall, the coalition announced plans to continue discussions with the local government and legislators. The protest underscored the KRB’s goal of building a fairer work environment that acknowledges Batam’s rising cost of living and the workforce’s vital role in the city’s economic growth.
Batam’s workers hope for meaningful policy shifts and fair treatment, believing these reforms are critical in light of escalating expenses. For workers and residents alike, addressing these demands could transform Batam into a model city for balanced labor relations and sustainable economic development.
Hundreds of Batam workers and drivers staged a peaceful rally, demanding a 30% wage increase and the repeal of the Omnibus Law. The protest highlighted the workforce’s call for fair treatment and a sustainable future in Batam’s industrial economy.
Sources: Batam News, Tribun News (2024)
Keywords: Wage Hike Protest, Batam Workers, Fair Labor Policies
