West Java Official Calls for Action on High Layoff Rate

West Java, a major Indonesian industrial hub, is grappling with a significant wave of layoffs, prompting calls for immediate and coordinated action. Data from the Ministry of Manpower reveals that from January to June 2026, the province recorded the highest number of job terminations nationwide, with 6,727 workers affected. This figure represents over 20% of the national total.

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This high number of layoffs must be a serious concern for all parties. The local government, the central government, business actors, and labor unions need to sit together to find solutions so that the business world remains sustainable while workers' rights remain protected.

Farabi El Fouz, a member of the West Java Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD), emphasized the need for a united front involving local and central governments, businesses, and labor unions. "This high number of layoffs must be a serious concern for all parties," Farabi stated. He stressed the importance of joint efforts to ensure businesses remain viable while protecting workers' rights.

To mitigate the crisis, Farabi proposed that the provincial government enhance coordination with district and city administrations to identify industries under pressure. This targeted approach, he believes, will enable more effective policies for both preventing further layoffs and assisting those already unemployed. Additionally, he advocated for strengthening vocational training, reskilling, and upskilling programs aligned with current industry demands. "The government must accelerate training programs and expand job placement access so they can quickly find new opportunities," he urged.

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Don't let workers who are laid off have to be unemployed for a long time. The government must accelerate training programs and expand job placement access so they can quickly find new opportunities.

The DPRD member also expressed hope that incoming investments would directly benefit local employment. Maintaining a conducive investment climate, he noted, is crucial for business growth and job creation. The DPRD itself pledges to continue its oversight of labor policies, ensuring government programs effectively meet public needs. The ultimate goal, Farabi concluded, is to reduce layoffs, foster business growth, and improve worker welfare through sustainable policies.

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The hope is that the number of layoffs can be reduced, the business world continues to grow, and the welfare of workers in West Java can be continuously maintained through appropriate and sustainable policies.