Dr. Ike Farida, S.H., LL.M., and Dr. Shoichi Oni, B.A., M.H., representing Indonesia at the 8th JILPT Tokyo Comparative Labor Policy Seminar

Dr. Ike Farida, S.H., LL.M and Dr. Shoichi Oni, B.A., M.H., proudly represented Indonesia at the prestigious international conference titled "Comparative Labor Policy Seminar," held in Tokyo, Japan. On this occasion, they not only conducted a critical evaluation, but also confidently promoted Indonesia's pension and old-age security systems for elderly workers. Their participation in the conference highlights their significant contribution to advancing social protection standards in Indonesia, particularly in response to the challenges posed by an aging population. 

In front of representatives from various countries, Dr. Farida also delivered an in-depth explanation regarding the provisions for severance pay, long service pay, and compensation for entitlements granted to workers who are laid off due to reaching retirement age, as amended in the Omnibus Law on Job Creation. She emphasized that Indonesia must proactively address the risks associated with an aging population. One key approach is through legal transformation, particularly in strengthening the social security framework for the elderly. 

Dr. Ike Farida also firmly stated that Indonesia must be prepared to face the aging society phenomenon, as has already occurred in several countries such as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. These countries are experiencing a demographic shift known as the “constructed population pyramid,” where the number of elderly citizens surpasses that of the younger, productive-age population. 

Taking Japan as a reflection, the country has implemented labor policies that require employers to provide broader employment opportunities for older workers up to the age of 70. This approach could serve as a valuable reference for Indonesia, considering the importance of strengthening labor market inclusion and maximizing demographic potential, including the contribution and empowerment of the elderly in the national economy. 

In conclusion, Dr. Farida recommended that Indonesia expand access to pension benefits for informal workers, noting that they currently only have access to old-age savings programs. This situation creates a form of discrimination against informal sector workers, as they are excluded from the full spectrum of social security programs available to their formal sector counterparts. By granting informal workers access to pension benefits, they would gain greater financial support upon reaching retirement age. 

Another recommendation proposed by Dr. Farida is the need for further comparative studies and observations, particularly from countries with a high working-age population that are also undergoing a transition toward an aging society. By learning from their experiences and regulatory frameworks, Indonesia can advance its strategies to develop a more inclusive and sustainable approach to supporting its elderly population. 

During the event, Dr. Farida’s presentation received high praise for its comprehensive study on the protection of elderly workers’ rights and the strengthening of social security systems, particularly pension and old-age benefits. Her insights also provided valuable comparative perspectives for other countries in designing worker protection policies amid demographic transitions.