The presence of the elements of practice similar to slavery and forced labour are serious problems for corporations, especially for those seeking to globalize with their products demanded by the world.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) came across practices of forced labour and actions akin to slavery against human cage dwellers at the residence of inactive District Head Langkat Terbit Rencana Perangin Angin.

In his statement on Saturday, Komnas HAM's member, Mohammad Choirul Anam, noted that the identification of forced labour practice was based on the lack of wage for these cage dwellers.

These dwellers are workers in Angin's palm oil company.

Through Komnas HAM's YouTube channel, Angin also highlighted that the identification of practice similar to slavery was based on two important indicators.

"Firstly, these people (cage dwellers) do not have the freedom to determine their own fate. They do not have ownership of their lives," he noted.

"Secondly, the control on them from outside is very strong," he remarked.

Moreover, a finding indicated that these workers were threatened with penalty if found to be lazy or not working in the palm oil company, he revealed.

In general, the cage dwellers faced despicable treatment, as they were demeaned and robbed of their rights to determine their own fate, he added.

This forced labour practice goes against the stance adopted by Indonesia as a country that has ratified the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention, which stipulates on the eradication of forced labour, Anam remarked.

He urged all corporations in Indonesia, specifically in the palm oil industry, to steer clear from engaging in similar practices.

"The presence of the elements of practice similar to slavery and forced labour are serious problems for corporations, especially for those seeking to globalize with their products demanded by the world," he stated.

These corporations should follow the regulations set by the world, he remarked.

"If forced labour, practice similar to slavery, and torture related to a palm oil corporation are found, it will have a serious impact on our palm oil products," he cautioned.

The commission also encourages the implementation of routine monitoring, evaluation, and reporting system from corporations related to the potential practice of forced labour or slavery.

This system will improve the condition of industries and corporations in Indonesia and also help to uphold human rights.

Business practices should not only be profit-oriented but they should also respect human rights. Thus, related parties can collectively enjoy prosperity, Anam stated.

Related news: Indonesian crew members trapped in modern slavery at sea: Minister
Related news: Indonesia calls for ILO countries to stop forced labor

Translator: Tri Meilani A, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2022