Authorities Enforce Holiday Bonus Payments as Companies Face Strict Regulations

The Provincial Government of Riau Islands (Kepri) has opened three Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR) complaint centers to monitor and ensure that businesses fulfill their holiday bonus obligations. The move aims to protect workers’ rights and prevent payment delays ahead of Idulfitri 2025.

The Riau Islands Department of Manpower and Transmigration (Disnakertrans) has launched three THR complaint centers in Tanjungpinang, Batam, and Karimun to oversee employer compliance. John Barus, Acting Head of Disnakertrans Kepri, confirmed that workers can report any delays or violations regarding THR payments at these centers.

“The complaint centers are fully operational, and our teams are prepared to receive and process grievances related to THR payments,” he stated on March 18, 2025, in Batam.

The initiative follows the Ministry of Manpower’s Circular Letter (SE) No. M/2/HK.04.00/III/2025, which mandates all provincial and municipal governments to set up THR monitoring posts.

“It’s not just about these three centers; all regencies and cities must also establish their own complaint centers,” John explained. The regulations also enforce strict penalties, including administrative sanctions and potential business closure, for companies that fail to comply with THR payments.

Workers who experience delayed, incomplete, or missing THR payments can file complaints at the designated locations. The centers will also provide consultations for businesses, particularly small and growing enterprises, on proper THR calculations.

“Our mediators and labor inspectors will ensure that all cases are handled properly,” John added.

According to THR regulations, employees who have worked at least 12 months are entitled to one month’s salary as THR. Those employed for less than a year receive a proportional bonus, calculated as (months worked × one month’s salary) ÷ 12. Employers must pay THR in full, without installment plans, at least one week before Idulfitri 2025.

With Batam’s position as a business hub, these monitoring efforts are crucial in ensuring labor rights and business compliance. As the region attracts international investors and companies, strong labor protections will enhance confidence in Kepri’s regulatory system, benefiting both local workers and foreign stakeholders.

Sources: Gokepri (2025), RRI (2025)

Keywords: Kepri, THR Complaint, Workers’ Rights, Holiday Bonus, Labor Law, Batam, Tanjungpinang, Karimun