News

Unions, industry associations and government ministries for labour and immigration have agreed to set up a tripartite body which will operate as a "social partnership". This body is intended to guide industry growth and development, taking into account the interests of all three parties.



The group will discuss issues relating to industry development and labour relations including training and re-training for workers, resolution of disputes and the issue of competitiveness given increasing demands for “freer” trade in the global economy.



The negotiated structure provides specific roles for the three parties. The government will set competency standards and provide training facilities and will provide information about the national economic situation. Employer associations will also have input on skill/competency needs and productivity standards. Unions will provide guidance on social dialogue practice and international standards on skills and competency from the union perspective, with the support of UNI Apro.



Director General for Development of Industrial Relations (PHI) and Social Security MOMT, Myra M. Hanartani, and the Chairman of ASPEK, Muhammad Hakim are hopeful that this dialogue will enable unions and employers to resolve problems and contribute to economic development. According to Chairman Hakim, the “pattern of industrial relations work must be considered, developed, and socialized.”



Chairman Hakim also stated that this might be a pioneer for similar initiatives in other industries, such as the media and banking sectors.