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| May Day Shocker 2025: Prabowo’s Anti-Outsourcing Promise, Soaring Inflation, Attacked Journalist, and a Tragic Murder Case. |
JAKARTA – May Day 2025 in Indonesia was marked by a whirlwind of major events—some hopeful, some worrying, and others outright shocking. From president-elect Prabowo Subianto's promise to eliminate outsourcing for workers, to rising inflation driven by higher electricity bills and global gold prices, this year's International Workers' Day stirred public attention like never before.
Adding to the chaos, a journalist in Semarang was reportedly assaulted while covering labor protests, and a disturbing murder case in Wonogiri involving a woman killed and cemented in a tub has reignited debate on women's safety.
On top of that, the Indonesian Meteorological Agency (BMKG) reported extreme heat up to 37°C in several regions, sparking health and agricultural concerns.
This article takes a deeper look at each of these events, their impacts on society, and why collaboration between the government and the public is more important than ever in facing today's national challenges.
Prabowo’s Bold Move: Outsourcing to Be Eliminated
In a surprising announcement during the May Day celebration at Monas, Jakarta, President-elect Prabowo Subianto committed to abolishing the outsourcing system, particularly in sectors that have long disadvantaged workers.
Prabowo highlighted how outsourcing has led to job insecurity, poor wages, and lack of long-term welfare for many employees. He promised to reform labor policies to be more worker-friendly.
Labor unions welcomed the move, calling it a "fresh wind of hope" for workers. However, they also demanded that the government back the plan with clear and firm legal regulations to prevent half-hearted implementation.
On the other hand, business owners expressed concern that ending outsourcing might increase operational costs. A fair and gradual transition policy will be needed to balance the interests of both workers and employers.
Inflation Hits 1.17% in April: Electricity Tariffs Up, Gold Prices Soar
The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported that Indonesia’s inflation in April 2025 rose to 1.17%, driven mainly by increased electricity tariffs and global gold prices.
The electricity hike was introduced to help reduce government subsidies and cover PLN's operational costs. But for low- and middle-income households, the change adds financial pressure to daily life.
Meanwhile, the global surge in gold prices—fueled by economic uncertainty—pushed domestic prices for jewelry and precious metals even higher. Analysts warned this could further erode people’s purchasing power if not addressed soon.
Experts are urging the government to strengthen social assistance programs, stabilize food prices, and improve logistics distribution to control inflation in the coming months.
Journalist Assaulted During May Day Protest in Semarang
A disturbing incident occurred in Semarang where a Tempo journalist was physically assaulted by security officers while covering a labor protest. According to eyewitnesses, the journalist was slammed to the ground while documenting a demonstrator’s arrest.
This act drew strong condemnation from the Indonesian Journalists Association (AJI) and the Press Council, who demanded a full investigation and legal protection for journalists on duty.
Indonesia's Press Law No. 40/1999 clearly guarantees the safety and rights of journalists. Violence against media professionals is a serious threat to democracy and freedom of speech.
The police have promised to investigate the incident and take firm action. However, the public is still calling for better protection and respect for journalistic work moving forward.
Horrific Murder in Wonogiri: Woman Killed and Cemented Over Marriage Demand
A chilling murder case in Wonogiri, Central Java has shocked the nation. A woman was found dead—her body encased in cement. The suspect? A man she was in a relationship with.
Investigations revealed the motive: the woman reportedly asked the man to marry her, which led to a deadly confrontation when he refused. He later committed the gruesome act to cover up the crime.
The case went viral on social media, reigniting concerns about gender-based violence and the lack of legal protection for women in Indonesia.
Many activists called for harsher punishment and increased efforts in educating the public about healthy relationships and emotional well-being. Local authorities are being urged to step up legal, psychological, and social support for victims of abuse.
Extreme Heat Warning: BMKG Records 37°C in Several Cities
The BMKG issued a warning this week after recording temperatures reaching up to 37°C in regions like Jakarta, Surabaya, Yogyakarta, and parts of East Nusa Tenggara. The heatwave is blamed on an early dry season and lingering El Niño effects.
People are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and wear breathable clothing. The heat also threatens farming activities, with reports of crop failures due to dry soil conditions.
Local governments are being called on to provide clean water access and emergency irrigation support to farmers and rural communities.
A Nation at a Crossroads: Unity and Action Needed
This year’s May Day highlights how Indonesia is currently facing multi-layered challenges—from economic instability and labor reforms to threats against press freedom and rising violence against women.
It’s a crucial moment for the government, media, and the public to work hand in hand toward building a fairer, safer, and more resilient Indonesia.
Stay tuned for more updates, and feel free to share your thoughts or request coverage on specific issues. Let’s keep the conversation going for a better future!
