Social Security Dues Should Not Burden Workers

Jakarta, Jan 8 (ANTARA) - The President of the Confederation of Indonesian Workers Union (KSPI), Said Iqbal, has stated that the National Social Security Providers System (BPJS) should be implemented for at least five more years. "The workers are still protesting against the National Social Security Providers System provisions relating to the monthly apportionment of retirement funds, with 3 percent being imposed on the employers and 2.7 percent on the workers. The workers see these as burdens," he told ANTARA here on Tuesday. "The system should be followed for the next five years so it can be evaluated whether the 3 percent translates into sufficient funds or not," Said pointed out. "The additional 2 percent on workers is not necessary at present," he continued. Said added that BPJS must first prove that it can provide better healthcare to workers. He said he also expected BPJS to help workers meet their healthcare expenses throughout their lives. "Workers would pay if the services provided by the program are good. For instance, there should be lifetime treatment, unlimited medical expenses and for all kinds of diseases," Said explained. According to Law No. 40/2004 on Social Security, in chapters 21 and 25 for workers` health insurance, medical expenses will be reimbursed only until six months after the worker is laid off. "Besides, the provision is only for standard treatment," Said pointed out. Meanwhile, under Article 27, the provision of health insurance contribution, which is to be shared by employers and workers, has been regulated under a President`s decree that is yet to be issued.