/data/photo/2020/11/24/5fbc7d2003faf.jpg "5fbc7d2003faf.jpg")
The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives (DPR) have officially passed the Domestic Worker Protection Law (UU PPRT), marking a fundamental shift in the legal status of domestic employees. Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) Arifah Choiri Fauzi confirmed that the law formally eliminates the terms “servant” (pembantu) and “master” (majikan).
A Shift in Professional Identity
Under the new legislation, individuals previously referred to as servants are now legally recognized as workers. The official terminology has transitioned to “domestic worker” (pekerja rumah tangga) and “domestic worker employer” (pemberi pekerja rumah tangga).
This change is codified in Article 1, paragraph (1) of the UU PPRT, which defines a domestic worker as someone employed to perform household tasks in exchange for wages. Article 1, paragraph (4) defines the employer as an individual or group within a household who employs a domestic worker via wage payment.
Legal Protections and Community Oversight
Minister Arifah stated that the UU PPRT aligns with international mandates to provide necessary protections for those working in private homes. Workers are now entitled to humane treatment, legal protection, and a operate environment free from violence.
Even as the primary law is now active, specific details regarding basic rights are expected to be finalized in derivative regulations. These future rules may define fair wages, reasonable working hours, social security, healthy food requirements, and rights to leave or holidays.
The law as well introduces a community-based monitoring system involving local neighborhood heads (RT and RW). Employers will be required to report the employment of a domestic worker to the local RT, providing the worker’s name, age, and the specific agreements reached between both parties.
Ending a Two-Decade Stalemate
The National Advocacy Network for Domestic Workers (JALA PRT) has expressed appreciation for the government and the DPR. Coordinator Lita Anggraini noted that the legislation had been stalled for more than 20 years before its final approval.
The enactment of the law is seen as a victory for the long-term struggle of domestic workers to gain formal recognition. It is likely that the upcoming derivative regulations will be the next critical step in determining how these protections are implemented on the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What terminology has been replaced by the UU PPRT?
The terms “pembantu” (servant) and “majikan” (master/employer) are no longer used. They have been replaced by “pekerja rumah tangga” (domestic worker) and “pemberi pekerja rumah tangga” (domestic worker employer).
What specific rights will be covered by the derivative regulations?
Future derivative regulations are expected to detail basic rights such as fair wages, reasonable working hours, social security, the right to leave or holidays, and access to healthy food.
How is the local community involved in the protection of domestic workers?
Employers are required to report the hiring of a domestic worker to the local RT (neighborhood head), including details such as the worker’s name, age, and the terms of their employment agreement.
Do you believe that changing the legal terminology from “servant” to “worker” will significantly change the social treatment of domestic employees?
