Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Thousands of employees of PT Sri Rejeki Isman Tbk (Sritex), one of Indonesia’s largest textile manufacturers, are preparing to stage a peaceful protest in front of the Presidential Palace and the Supreme Court in Jakarta. The planned demonstration follows a Supreme Court ruling that upheld the company’s bankruptcy, overturning Sritex’s appeal.
Union Responds to Bankruptcy Ruling
Slamet Kaswanto, the Coordinator of the Sritex Workers Union, expressed deep disappointment with the court’s decision. Speaking to CNBC Indonesia on Tuesday, Slamet announced that workers will hold a consolidation meeting this Friday to finalize plans for their peaceful protest.
“This ruling is deeply painful and shocking for all of us. Despite the challenges, we have continued to work hard to maintain production and stability within the company,” said Slamet.
The workers are calling on the government to intervene and resolve the crisis. “We are determined to have our voices heard by the President and the Supreme Court. The government must step in to address the devastating impact of this bankruptcy on thousands of families,” Slamet added.
Sritex Massive Social and Economic Impact
The Supreme Court’s decision has left 15,000 Sritex employees directly affected, with an additional 50,000 people indirectly impacted. The ripple effects extend to small businesses, local communities, and educational institutions that rely on Sritex’s operations.
“This ruling not only crushes the hopes and futures of our workers but also risks creating widespread social unrest,” warned Slamet.
The company’s assets are now subject to liquidation, and the closure of Sritex could disrupt local economies, particularly in regions dependent on its textile operations.
Strategic Importance of Sritex
Sritex is recognized as a significant national asset, known for its advanced textile production capabilities. The company is the only Southeast Asian manufacturer licensed to produce uniforms for NATO, a testament to its high standards and technological expertise.
“Sritex has placed Indonesia on the global textile industry map,” said Slamet. “It would be a tragedy to see such a strategic asset dismantled. We urge the government to support domestic industries instead of favoring foreign investment.”
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Hope for Government Intervention
The union emphasized that the management of Sritex plans to file for a judicial review (Peninjauan Kembali) as a last-ditch effort to overturn the bankruptcy ruling. Workers are calling on the government to recognize Sritex’s value and provide assistance to prevent its dissolution.
“This isn’t just about Sritex. It’s about preventing similar treatment for other struggling companies and protecting Indonesia’s industrial future,” said Slamet.
(Becky)
