Responding to the wave of layoffs affecting Tokopedia and TikTok employees, Said Iqbal announced a proactive step by scheduling in-depth meetings with the company management and worker representatives. This step was taken to ensure the government obtains objective and complete information regarding the background of the issue before formulating further policies.
Said Iqbal emphasized that the characteristics of the digital economy industry have a different complexity compared to the conventional manufacturing sector. Therefore, he plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Manpower to go directly to the field. This deep-dive is crucial to map out whether the layoff policy was driven by business efficiency or if there are indications of violations of labor regulations applicable in Indonesia.
Furthermore, the government reiterated its commitment to being fair by reviewing the market dynamics and economic pressures that the companies might be facing. According to him, if the issue is triggered by changes in the business model or economic challenges, then the most appropriate solution is through constructive dialogue that ensures business continuity while protecting the fundamental rights of the workforce.
This mediation approach is not new to the government. Said Iqbal referred to the success of similar strategies in the past, where government-facilitated dialogue successfully saved thousands of workers from the threat of layoffs. By applying the same resolution pattern, he is optimistic about finding a middle ground that satisfies both parties.
Referring to President Prabowo Subianto's direction, the government is determined to always be present in creating a healthy business climate without sidelining protection for workers. This field investigation process is targeted to run in the near future to ensure that all company policies remain within the legal corridors applicable in the country.
