Hani Sofia Muthmainnah, Denpasar – Wages that do not meet the needs of a decent living were highlighted during the commemoration of International Labour Day (May Day) 2026 in Bali. Although they did not take to the streets, trade unions remain committed to fighting for an increase in wages for workers.
Confederation of All Indonesian Trade Unions (KSPSI) Bali Regional Leadership Board (DPD) Chairperson Wayan Mandra said that the current wages in Bali are still far from the figure for the Reasonable Living Cost Index (KHL).
Based on survey results, the amount needed for a decent living in Bali is in the range of more than 5 million rupiah a month, while the prevailing wage is still around 3 million a month.
"Wages in Bali are still low. The last survey was around 5 million rupiah, but what is applied is still 3 million rupiah. This is what we have to discuss in the future", said Mandra said after a May Day speech at Renon Square in Denpasar on Friday May 1.
Mandra said that the trade union had communicated with the Bali Labour Office to discuss future wage increases. Considering that the last wage increase was only determined in December last year.
"We have discussed this with the Labour Office, we will discuss this again in the future", he concluded.
He emphasised that the struggle to improve workers' welfare remains a priority, even though this is not being done through demonstrations. According to Mandra, conveying aspirations can be achieved through dialogue and formal mechanisms such as tripartite forums involving workers, employers and the government.
"There is a tripartite [body], there are workers, employers, and the government. That's where we discuss existing problems", said Mandra.
On the other hand, Mandra emphasised the importance of balancing business progress and workers' welfare, especially in Bali which depends on the tourism sector.
"Business grows, workers are also prosperous. The results of tourism must be enjoyed together", he asserted.
This year's May Day commemoration in Bali was deliberately planned without demonstrations in order to maintain stability and comfort in the tourism sector, by prioritising dialogue as the main channel of workers' struggle. (nor/nor)
[Translated by James Balowski. The original title of the article was "May Day 2026 Soroti Upah Buruh Bali Rp 3 Jutaan Jauh dari Hidup Layak".]
