End of a Long Wait, PPRT Law Officially Protects Domestic Workers from Exploitation.
JAKARTA - A new history has been created for the Indonesian labor world. The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) officially passed the Domestic Workers Protection Law (UU PPRT) in a plenary session at the Nusantara Building, Jakarta, Tuesday (21/04).
This step is considered a major victory for millions of domestic workers who have been struggling in the informal sector without legal certainty. GREAT Institute in particular gives high appreciation for this success, calling it a tangible proof of the state's presence for groups that have been marginalized.
The Crucial Role of the Leadership of the DPR RI
The success of the ratification of the PPRT Law is inseparable from the strategic role of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad. As the chairman of the plenary meeting with the Legislation Agency (Baleg) on (20/04), Dasco was considered successful in bridging various political dynamics and building consensus across factions.
The Executive Director of the GREAT Institute, Dr. Sudarto, gave special praise for the leadership.
"The GREAT Institute appreciates the leadership of Prof. Sufmi Dasco Ahmad who managed to pass the PPRT Law. This ratification shows political bias towards vulnerable groups and strengthens the image of the DPR RI as an institution that is responsive to social justice issues," said Dr. Sudarto.
Eliminating the "Grey Area" in the Informal Sector
Until now, domestic workers (PRT), who are mostly women, have been trapped in vulnerable informal labor relations. Without a legal umbrella, issues such as low wages, excessive working hours, and violence are often difficult to legally address.
According to Dr. Sudarto, the PPRT Law is present to close this "gray area". This law changes the old paradigm which views PRT as merely "helpers" to become professional workers who have dignity and equal rights.
Important Points of Protection in the PPRT Law:
Work Hours: Humanized work and rest time arrangements. Welfare Rights: The right to leave and Eid Allowance (THR). Fair Wages: Prohibition of unilateral wage cuts by employers. Social Security: Full access to BPJS Health and Employment. Labor Security: Legal protection from physical, psychological, and exploitation violence.Positive Signals of Public Policy
From a public policy perspective, this enactment is a strong signal that Indonesia is starting to pay serious attention to the informal sector.
"This is not only about protection, but also recognition of the great contribution of PRT to the domestic economy," concluded Sudarto. With the PPRT Law, it is hoped that the welfare standards of domestic workers in Indonesia will increase significantly and be in line with the principles of social justice.