Indonesian Workers Challenge 2026 Minimum Wage, Threaten Legal Action

Protests Erupt in Jakarta and West Java

Workers across Indonesia, particularly in Jakarta and West Java, have taken to the streets to protest the newly announced 2026 Provincial Minimum Wage (UMP). The protests, led by the Indonesian Workers' Confederation (KSPI), are against the Jakarta UMP being set at Rp 5.73 million, which is lower than the workers' demand of Rp 5.89 million based on the Cost of Living (KHL) calculations ¹

Legal Action Looms if Demands Aren't Met

The protests are not just a one-day event; they are backed by a threat of legal action. KSPI President Said Iqbal has announced plans to file a lawsuit with the Administrative Court if their demands are not met. The legal process will begin with filing an objection letter to the Governor, as required by procedure ²

Key Demands of the Protesting Workers

1. Revision of Jakarta UMP 2026: Workers demand that it be set at 100% of KHL, amounting to Rp 5.89 million per month.
2. Implementation of Sectoral Minimum Wage: In West Java, workers are demanding the proper implementation of the Sectoral Minimum Wage at the district/city level ⁴
   Source 4

   https://nasional.kontan.co.id/news/ump-2026-abaikan-kebutuhan-hidup-layak-buruh-demo-dan-ancam-gugatan-ke-ptun
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Government Stance and Potential Impact

The government's decision to set the UMP at the current level has been criticized for not adequately addressing the rising cost of living. Saeful Tavip, President of the All-Indonesia Workers Organization (OPSI), emphasized that the issue is not just about the percentage increase but the failure to use KHL as the primary reference for setting the minimum wage ⁴