DPR Pushes for Gig Economy Workers’ Rights in the Revision of the Labor Law
Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) Mukhtarudin has proposed that workers in the gig economy sector be included in the discussion of the revision of Law Number 13 of 2003 on Manpower.
The term gig economy refers to informal or part-time workers who operate through digital platforms. It is a work system that allows companies to hire part-time workers and freelancers for short-term periods.
Mukhtarudin emphasized the importance of establishing clear regulations to protect the welfare and income of gig workers, who have often been left out of existing social protection schemes.
Under the proposed regulation, gig workers are expected to receive basic rights equivalent to formal workers, including social security (healthcare, pension, and work accident insurance), fair wages, flexible working hours, and clear employment agreements. On the other hand, digital platforms would also have several obligations, such as providing health insurance, training, income transparency, and timely payments.
The proposal also includes fair dispute resolution mechanisms between workers and platforms, covering issues such as rates, service quality, and working conditions. Flexibility remains a priority, but not at the expense of workers’ fundamental rights.
Examples of jobs in the gig economy include:
- Online drivers
- Content writers
- Graphic designers
- Software engineers
- Couriers
The revision of the Manpower Law has been included in the 2025 National Legislative Program (Prolegnas) Priority List, and discussions are being held in Commission IX of the DPR RI. This shows that the issue of gig worker protection is receiving serious legislative attention to be incorporated into the new manpower regulations.
