Labor groups in Indonesia are planning further protests to demand adjustments to the 2026 Provincial Minimum Wage (UMP), despite a recent increase. Members of the Indonesian Trade Union Confederation (KSPI) intend to rally at the Jakarta Presidential Palace and the House of Representatives on January 8, 2026, joining workers from Jakarta and West Java.
Wage Discrepancies Fuel Protests
The planned demonstration is a continuation of demands for a higher UMP in Jakarta, which currently stands at Rp5,729,876 – a 6.17 percent increase from 2025. However, labor organizations are seeking a UMP of Rp5,898,511, citing figures from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) regarding the ideal Cost of Living (KHL). Protesters are also advocating for wages to align with recommendations from local mayors and regents, rather than rates set by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi.
Workers from cities including Cirebon, Subang, Purwakarta, Karawang, and Bekasi plan to travel to Jakarta by motorcycle, a method chosen for its cost-effectiveness. Labor Party President Said Iqbal emphasized the importance of a wage increase to improve living standards for Jakarta workers, whose current minimum wage is lower than in Bekasi and Karawang.
Economic Concerns Drive Demands
Beyond living standards, labor groups believe a wage increase is crucial for boosting purchasing power in Jakarta and bridging the gap between income and the actual cost of living, estimated at Rp15 million per month. Previous attempts to reach the Presidential Palace with these demands, including a rally on December 29, 2025, were met with police barriers near the BSI Tower and the Horse Statue in Central Jakarta.
The Jakarta UMP was determined using an alpha index of 0.75, resulting in an increase of Rp333,115 from the previous amount of Rp5,396,761, according to Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung. West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi announced UMP and UMSP rates of Rp2,317,601 and Rp2,339,995 respectively, stating that sectoral wages must adhere to government rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current minimum wage in Jakarta?
The 2026 UMP in Jakarta is currently set at Rp5,729,876.
What are the labor groups demanding?
Labor organizations are demanding that the Jakarta UMP be raised to Rp5,898,511, aligning it with the ideal Cost of Living (KHL) data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS).
How are workers planning to travel to Jakarta for the protest?
Workers from several cities plan to travel to Jakarta by motorcycle due to its cost-effectiveness.
Given the planned protests and ongoing negotiations, will Jakarta and West Java authorities seek further dialogue with labor representatives to address wage concerns?
