Indonesia's Labour Ministry Mediates Talks Between Epson Management and Workers' Union

JAKARTA, July 21 – Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower has facilitated talks between the management of PT Indonesia Epson Industry and its workers' union in an effort to resolve industrial relations issues through dialogue.

Deputy Manpower Minister Afriansyah Noor said on Tuesday the government was acting as a neutral mediator to encourage constructive communication between the company and employees while safeguarding workers' rights, business continuity and investment certainty.

"Social dialogue is the key to resolving industrial relations issues. The government is committed to providing a constructive forum where workers' statutory rights remain protected," Afriansyah said during a meeting with the Federation of Global Indonesian Workers' Union (F-SPGI).

The union raised concerns over the implementation of the collective labour agreement, internal union matters and the use of fixed-term employment contracts.

Company management said its policies were based on a business performance review, according to the ministry.

The ministry subsequently brought both parties together to exchange views and seek common ground on the issues discussed.

Afriansyah said the ministry would continue promoting dialogue and overseeing compliance with labour regulations, expressing hope that sustained communication would help both sides reach mutually acceptable solutions while maintaining stable industrial relations.(Jamil)