The Indonesian Palm Oil Sector Workers’ Union Network (JAPBUSI), alongside labor unions, employers, and the government, attended the commemoration of the World Day Against Child Labour, an event initiated by the International Labour Organization (ILO) Jakarta.
The event was officially opened by the ILO Director for Indonesia and Timor-Leste, Simrin Singh, at the open area of Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Jakarta, on Friday (June 12, 2026).
In her remarks, Simrin Singh expressed her satisfaction regarding the agricultural sector—historically one of the worst sectors for child labor—noting that she had recently observed an absence of child labor in that sector.
“Not long ago, I visited a dairy farm in Malang, East Java, and I was happy to find no child labor there,” said Simrin.
Simrin also observed that many parents and young people are currently happy working in the livestock sector, performing tasks ranging from milking cows to processing milk and cheese. This demonstrates that Indonesia can make significant strides toward becoming free of child labor.
“We must all ensure there are no more ‘red cards’ for child labor; this spirit must continue to burn bright—not just today during the commemoration against child labor, but moving forward as well,” Simrin hoped.
As is well known, June 12 is observed annually as the World Day Against Child Labour, uniting governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations, businesses, civil society, communities, and individuals to strengthen efforts to end child labour.
This 2026 World Day comes at a pivotal moment, following the Sixth Global Conference on the Elimination of Child Labour in Marrakech, which reaffirmed the need to accelerate progress and translate commitments into tangible results. Under the slogan “A red card for child labour: Fair play for children, decent work for adults,” the campaign calls for stronger action regarding quality education, social protection, decent work, robust laws and enforcement, and other measures that address the root causes of child labour.
Despite the progress made, 138 million children worldwide remain engaged in child labor, including nearly 54 million involved in hazardous work.
On this World Day Against Child Labour, show the red card to child labor and help turn the Marrakech commitment into tangible change for children, families, and communities everywhere.
Attendees included representatives from JAPBUSI member federations, KBS, and labor unions; representatives from the Ministry of Manpower and relevant ministries; representatives from Apindo and related business associations; as well as university students, civil society organizations, and the general public.
(red/handi)
