North Sumatra to Gather 2,000 Workers for May Day 2026 at GOR Astaka

MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM – The Government of North Sumatra Province will centralize the 2026 International Workers' Day (May Day) commemoration at GOR Astaka, Jalan Williem Iskandar, Deli Serdang Regency. Around 2,000 participants from 77 labor unions are expected to attend the event, which is designed as a dialogue platform for the peaceful expression of workers' aspirations.

The announcement was made by Yuliani Siregar, Head of the North Sumatra Manpower Office (Disnaker), during the "Apa Cerita" podcast at the Disnaker office on Jalan Asrama No. 143, Dwi Kora, Medan Helvetia, on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

May Day Positioned as a Constructive Dialogue Forum

Yuliani emphasized that May Day should not be viewed merely as a ceremonial event, but as a space for constructive engagement between workers and the government.

"We want May Day to be more than just a ceremonial event. It must become a real dialogue forum to address labor issues and find joint solutions. This approach is essential for building healthy and mutual understanding," she said.

She added that the discussions are expected to produce concrete solutions to various labor-related challenges in North Sumatra.

Strengthening Social Protection for Vulnerable Workers

On May 1, 2026, the North Sumatra government will also expand social protection coverage through the BPJS Ketenagakerjaan program across all 33 regencies and cities.

The initiative prioritizes vulnerable workers, particularly those in the plantation sector such as tappers and harvest workers. Funding will be supported through a palm oil grant fund.

In addition, protection will be extended to vulnerable workers in the Nias Islands through the regional budget (APBD).

"In coordination with the Social Service, around 20,000 vulnerable workers will be enrolled in the social security program. The main targets are individuals in the lowest income groups, deciles 1 and 2. This is one of the provincial government's strategic programs," Yuliani explained.

Vocational Training and Multi-Agency Collaboration

Beyond social protection, the provincial government is also revitalizing Vocational Training Centers (BLK) in Simalungun and Pematangsiantar. These centers will offer free training programs aimed at improving skills, expanding job opportunities, and encouraging entrepreneurship.

To ensure the smooth implementation of May Day 2026, the Manpower Office is coordinating with multiple agencies, including the North Sumatra Police, Transportation Department, Health Office, Social Services, and several hospitals.

The event will also feature public service facilities such as driving license and vehicle registration services, ID card issuance, blood donation drives, health check-ups, and door prizes.

"We want to ensure this event runs smoothly and in an orderly manner, while also strengthening shared understanding for improving the labor environment in North Sumatra," she said. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Darmailawati | EDITOR: Fik Sagala