Sea of Workers Fill Monas for May Day 2026

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The National Monument (Monas) in Central Jakarta turned into a sea of color on Friday, May 1, as thousands of workers from various unions gathered to mark International Workers’ Day, or May Day 2026.

Crowds began filling the area as early as 8:18 a.m., with many rallying near the main stage on the western field of the capital’s landmark. Flags from different unions rose above the mass of demonstrators, adding to the vibrant display of banners and attributes carried by participants.

Despite the density, joint TNI-Polri (Indonesian Military-National Police) security personnel were stationed at key points to ensure the event ran smoothly.

Traffic congestion was also reported on several roads leading to Monas, as convoys of buses and private vehicles carrying participants were escorted by police patrol cars. The buildup stretched from Kwitang to Medan Merdeka Barat, though many demonstrators chose to continue on foot.

The rally was not limited to workers alone - online motorcycle taxi (ojol) communities also joined to voice their aspirations during the once-a-year commemoration.

President of the Confederation of Indonesian Trade Unions (KSPI) and Chairman of the Labor Party, Said Iqbal, confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto would attend the May Day celebration at Monas.

Plans for a separate demonstration at the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) building were dropped following direct dialogue between union leaders and the government.

Organizers estimate around 100,000 workers from various unions will converge on Monas. Simultaneous May Day rallies are also being held across 38 provinces and more than 350 cities, including Bandung, Serang, Semarang, Surabaya, Banda Aceh, Batam, Palembang, Banjarmasin, Makassar, Gorontalo, and Morowali. ***