Wina Ningsih Kuswadi, a 43-year-old domestic worker, anticipated improved working conditions following a speech by President Prabowo Subianto in 2025. President Subianto promised the passage of the Domestic Workers Protection Bill during the Labor Day commemoration.
Hopes Diminish as Bill Stalls
Wina, who has been following the bill’s progress, believes it contains provisions for working hours, fair wages, and protection from violence. Still, nine months after the President’s announcement, deliberations on the bill remain stalled in Senayan, Jakarta.
“Without regulations protecting domestic workers, it’s hard to imagine our lives improving,” Wina stated on February 19, 2026. She is currently involved with the Sapu Lidi Jakarta Domestic Workers Union.
Presidential Pledge Followed Input from Lawmaker
President Subianto’s commitment to the bill came after receiving input from Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, House Deputy Speaker and Gerindra Party Executive Chair.
If the bill were to pass, it could establish standardized working conditions and protections for domestic workers. However, without action by the House of Representatives, the bill may remain stalled indefinitely. A possible next step would be renewed advocacy from unions and stakeholders to prioritize the bill’s passage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted President Subianto’s pledge?
President Subianto pledged to pass the regulation after receiving input from House Deputy Speaker and Gerindra Party Executive Chair Sufmi Dasco Ahmad.
What are Wina’s concerns?
Wina expressed concern that without regulations protecting domestic workers, it will be difficult to see improvements in their lives.
Where are the bill’s deliberations currently taking place?
Deliberations on the bill remain stalled in Senayan—the site of the House complex in Jakarta.
What impact would formal protections have on the lives of domestic workers in Indonesia?
