Indonesia officially launched the translated and adapted version of the updated ILO code of practice on safety and health in forestry work. The launch was jointly conducted by the Ministry of Manpower, Ministry of Forestry, Indonesian Forest Concessionaires Association (APHI) and Trade Union Federation KAHUTINDO, with support from the ILO, in Jakarta on 28 April, coinciding with the commemoration of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work.
The launch has positioned Indonesia as the first country to formally translate, adapt and integrate the revised code into its national framework. It also marks Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening the implementation of occupational safety and health (OSH) in forestry work and to developing a forestry sector that is not only productive and sustainable but also prioritizes worker safety and health.
The updated code, discussed and adopted in a meeting of experts held in Geneva from May 13 to 17, by experts from governments and employers’ and workers’ organizations, aims to improve working conditions and practices in the forestry sector, which remains one of the most hazardous sectors globally.
The new text also marks an important milestone as the first ILO sectoral code of practice since the ILO’s historic decision to add ‘a safe and healthy working environment’ in its framework of fundamental principles and rights at work.
This milestone is crucial, aligning with the Ministry of Forestry’s strategy to advance Multi Forestry Businesses and enhance the optimal use of forest products.
Dida Mighfar Ridha, Forestry Minister Expert Staff
Dida Mighfar Ridha, Forestry Minister Expert Staff, emphasized that the launch of the OSH code of practice is expected to drive the transformation of forestry into a safer, healthier and more sustainable industry. “This milestone is crucial, aligning with the Ministry of Forestry’s strategy to advance Multi Forestry Businesses and enhance the optimal use of forest products,” he remarked.
From the perspective of employment, Indra, Special Staff to the Minister of Manpower, highlighted that OSH is a crucial pillar of national progress. “The launch represents a key milestone for the nation. The Ministry of Manpower, thus, remains dedicated to advocating for the revision and modernization of OSH-related laws, ensuring they align with current needs and developments,” he stated.
New occupational safety and health regulations are slated for implementation in 2026.
The Ministry of Manpower, thus, remains dedicated to advocating for the revision and modernization of OSH-related laws, ensuring they align with current needs and developments.
Indra, Special Staff to the Minister of Manpower
Indroyono Soesilo, APHI Chairperson, stated that this collaboration aligns with ongoing efforts to foster a conducive and sustainable forestry business environment. “Both domestic and international communities are increasingly advocating for responsible forest management practices, including the protection of occupational safety and health,” he said.
Considered as high-risk for workplace accidents and occupational diseases, Rulita Wijayaningdyah, Secretary General of FSP KAHUTINDO, underscored the importance of the adoption and integration of the updated code to help better protect those working in forests.
“The sector’s rugged topography and demanding geographical conditions heighten the risk of accidents. Thus, ensuring safety is a fundamental right of all workers and the updated code has identified new areas which require improved health and safety practices and other protective measures,” Rulita stated.
This milestone is a breakthrough that could create a ripple effect across many countries.
Simrin Singh, ILO Country Director for Indonesia and Timor-Leste
Simrin Singh, ILO Country Director for Indonesia and Timor-Leste, expressed her appreciation, stating that Indonesia has set an example for the world as the first nation to introduce the Indonesian translation and adaptation of the ILO’s OSH code of practice in the forestry sector. “This milestone is a breakthrough that could create a ripple effect across many countries,” she remarked.
She further urged the country to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance OSH implementation in the forestry sector, aligning with this year’s global OSH theme, which emphasizes AI’s role in advancing occupational safety.
The launch ceremony took place both in-person and online, featuring a livestream on ILO TV Indonesia that reached over 700 participants and viewers.