JAKARTA – An Indonesian airline company is facing allegations of poor employment practices after two former staff members sued the company for unpaid wages.

The owner of the carrier said she had no knowledge of the case, local media outlet Tempo reported.

The complainants filed their suit before the city’s Industrial Relations Court, alleging they have yet to receive their pay after being terminated in September 2017.

The court filing comes after the former employees initially reported the unpaid wages to the Jakarta Manpower, Transmigration, and Energy Service Office, according to a lawyer for the plaintiffs.

The manpower office then asked the carrier for recompense, which should have covered the complainants’ back payments on top of their severance pay and entitlements. The carrier, however, failed to remunerate them, the lawyer said.

With a hearing set for 25 November, the lawyer said they are eager to resolve the matter.

This month’s lawsuit is not the first complaint lodged against the airline company. Apart from wage issues, other complaints alleged labour violations, such as the lack of proper work permits for foreign pilots.

Industry observers have claimed the airline employs mostly non-Indonesian pilots who do not have the documentation required by the government. The company has also allegedly engaged in bribery to bypass immigration regulations, allowing foreign pilots to work illegally in Indonesia.

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Critics argue that the airline’s practices undermine employment opportunities for local talent and that the airline fails to contribute to their skills development.

Meanwhile, other employees who have spoken out against the airline alleged unsafe working conditions and excessive workloads.

The company is yet to provide a detailed response to the recent case of unpaid wages, but the owner has expressed commitment to addressing the issues including those around labour practices and the employment of foreign pilots.

The owner told Tempo she would look into the claims.

What to do in cases of labour violations in Indonesia

Workers in Indonesia who believe they are victims of workplace violations or illegal labour practices can take several actions:

1. Report to authorities. They can file complaints with the Ministry of Manpower or local labour offices, which oversee labour rights and workplace safety.

2. Seek legal assistance. Consulting with labour unions or legal aid organisations can help them understand their rights and navigate the legal process.

3. Document violations. Keeping detailed records of incidents, including dates, times, and witnesses, is crucial for substantiating claims.

4. Engage unions. Joining or contacting a labour union can provide support and resources for addressing grievances collectively.

5. Raise public awareness. Raising awareness through media or social platforms can pressure employers to rectify violations and improve conditions.

6. Seek redress through mediation or the court. If necessary, request mediation through the Ministry of Manpower or escalate the matter to the Industrial Relations Court if mediation fails.

The primary government agency in Indonesia responsible for the welfare of workers is the Ministry of Manpower, which oversees labour laws, workplace safety, and employee rights. The ministry ensures compliance with regulations and addresses workplace violations.

Additionally, local labour offices (Dinas Tenaga Kerja) operate at regional levels to provide support and the enforcement of labour standards within their jurisdictions.