Why buruh Is Trending Today?

Prabowo Subianto has designated 10 individuals as National Heroes, including former President Soeharto and Gus Dur, with Marsinah, a labor activist, being one of them. The Confederation of Indonesian Trade Unions (KSPSI) has praised this decision, stating that it honors the dignity of workers' struggles. Marsinah, known as a labor hero, fought for workers' rights, and her factory is now submerged in Lapindo mud. KSPSI views Marsinah's recognition as a sign of President Prabowo's commitment to workers. However, Prabowo's visit to Marsinah's family was met with protests, and Teddy, Marsinah's brother, went into hiding after being summoned. Workers hope that the case of Marsinah's murder will be reopened. Marsinah's family has a message for President Prabowo, and she is recognized alongside Hajjah Rahma El Yunusiyyah as one of the two women to receive the National Hero title.

Buruh, Indonesia's labor union, plans to continue its demonstration today, as per their statement. The protest, which was initially scheduled to take place in front of the Presidential Palace, was unexpectedly called off by the workers. The average salary for Indonesian workers with SMA and SMK diplomas is a topic of interest, with buruh advocating for a 10% increase in wages. President Prabowo has signed off on the formation of a task force for layoffs and a council for worker welfare, responding to buruh's demands. The demonstration on August 28, 2025, saw thousands of buruh participants, with various demands including fair wages and the abolition of outsourcing. The Indonesian Stock Exchange (IHSG) closed with a 0.20% increase today, despite the buruh demonstration.

Buruh staged a protest in front of the DPR building, leading to the closure of inbound and outbound toll access within the city. The protest, which was held to demand the implementation of the 2026 Minimum Wage (UMP), resulted in the evacuation of 276 students and 9 children from the area. The KSPI chairman, Said Iqbal, called on workers to withdraw from the protest, stating that the demonstration should be peaceful and not cause any disruption. The government, through the Minister of Manpower, is currently collecting input from both workers and employers regarding the UMP 2026. The protest also led to the rerouting of public transportation and the closure of certain roads in the area.