InfoSAWIT, JAKARTA – The Sustainable Palm Oil Labor Network (Jaga Sawitan) has marked its third anniversary since its establishment on February 16, 2023. The collaborative initiative, launched by the Indonesian Palm Oil Workers Union Network (JAPBUSI) and the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI), continues to promote solutions to labor issues in the palm oil sector through social dialogue.
JAPBUSI Executive Secretary Nursanna Marpaung emphasized that workers’ interests and business sustainability should not be seen as conflicting goals.
According to her, social dialogue offers a constructive path to resolving labor challenges within the palm oil industry.
“Protecting palm oil means not only protecting the trees and products, but also protecting the people who work within the industry,” Nursanna said during the Three-Year Reflection of Jaga Sawitan discussion, as reported by InfoSAWIT quote KabarSDGS on Monday (16/3/2026).
She noted that workers represent a fundamental pillar of the industry. Over the past three years, JAPBUSI has worked to ensure that workers in the palm oil sector receive decent working conditions.
“Over the past three years, Jaga Sawitan has served as a bridge for education and understanding of employment agreements and protections for women workers,” she said.
However, Nursanna acknowledged that significant challenges remain before Indonesia’s palm oil sector can be considered fully sustainable.
Among the main issues are social security coverage for workers, employment status clarity, and adequate occupational safety and health (OSH) facilities.
“Our shared homework includes social security, employment status, and proper OSH facilities. We must sit together to solve these challenges,” she said.
Meanwhile, GAPKI Chairman Eddy Martono said Jaga Sawitan serves as an important platform for building joint solutions among stakeholders in the palm oil industry.
Over the past three years, the network has carried out various initiatives, including worker training, advocacy, and efforts to improve labor governance within palm oil plantations.
“Collaboration must continue because many challenges remain. Discussions must lead to concrete actions, respect workers’ rights, and strengthen the credibility of the palm oil industry globally,” Eddy said.
He also highlighted the strategic importance of Indonesia’s palm oil industry, noting that the country is both the world’s largest producer and one of the largest consumers of palm oil.
According to him, the sector proved resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic when many industries struggled.
“During the pandemic, the palm oil industry remained stable. There were no layoffs, and in fact companies continued recruiting workers,” he said.
Going forward, GAPKI reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening occupational safety and health standards within the industry.
“GAPKI is committed to strengthening the implementation of Occupational Safety and Health in the palm oil sector,” he said. (T2)
