Lawmaker Urges Stronger Ministerial Coordination to Protect Creative Workers

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Commission VII lawmaker Siti Mukaromah has emphasized the urgent need for ministerial collaboration to ensure comprehensive protection for creative industry workers across Indonesia.

Her statement followed the case of Amsal Christy Sitepu, which drew public attention after allegations of corruption in a village profile video project in Karo Regency, North Sumatra.

The case has been widely perceived as the criminalization of creative workers because Amsal, a content creator, was prosecuted for his involvement in producing a video project, raising concerns that creative professionals could be unfairly targeted for their work rather than protected in their professional capacity.

“Strengthening government coordination is expected to reduce the potential criminalization of creative workers. This will ensure comprehensive solutions to issues affecting the creative industry, not just on a case-by-case basis. The resolution should address not only creative aspects but also legal, digital economy, employment, tourism, and other dimensions,” Siti said after a Public Hearing with the Ministry of Tourism at the Parliament Building in Jakarta, Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

“The Amsal case is an explosion. I hope no other Amsals are criminalized for their creative processes,” she added.

Siti noted that freelance workers are particularly vulnerable to excessive working hours without limits. Unlike permanent employees in formal companies, casual workers often lack access to social security.

She also highlighted the importance of addressing mental health concerns and other risks stemming from the uncertain professional environment faced by creative workers.

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS), the creative economy sector absorbed approximately 27.4 million productive workers in 2025, with the industry growing at a rate of 5.69 percent. “This demonstrates the important role of the creative industry in supporting the national economy. Creative industry workers are, in fact, job creators,” Siti said.

She stressed that the creativity of the younger generation can strengthen economic independence by reducing reliance on traditional job opportunities. The establishment of a ministry dedicated to the creative economy, she added, reflects the state’s commitment to building a dignified business ecosystem that supports innovation and protects workers. (Misni Parjiati/Lasti Martina)