Police Chief asks ojol drivers, workers to unite for stability

hartono · Mar 8, 2026

National Police Chief, Listyo Sigit Prabowo, led the Ojol and Laborers Security Routine at the Bumi Sriwijaya Stadium in Palembang, South Sumatra, on Sunday (March 8, 2026). ANTARA/HO-Divhumas Polri

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s national police chief called on ride-hailing motorcycle taxi drivers and laborers to maintain unity and help safeguard national stability, warning that escalating global tensions could have domestic repercussions.

National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo delivered the message during a security routine gathering for ride-hailing drivers, known locally as ojol, and workers in Palembang, South Sumatra.

He said the uncertain global situation could affect national conditions, making it important for all elements of society to remain united and avoid actions that could disrupt stability.

“In times like this, we need the strength of all elements of the nation, including laborers and the ojol community, to stay united, avoid provocation and jointly safeguard national stability,” Listyo said in a statement on Sunday.

He noted that laborers and ride-hailing drivers play a crucial role in supporting Indonesia’s economy and maintaining social stability.

Workers drive production and industrial activity, while ride-hailing drivers help connect small businesses with customers across urban areas.

“Online motorcycle drivers serve as a bridge between micro, small and medium enterprises and consumers, helping stimulate economic activity, particularly among lower- and middle-income communities,” he said.

Listyo said the government is also working to improve the welfare of workers through several policies aimed at strengthening social protection.

These measures include adjustments to the 2026 provincial minimum wage, expansion of the Job Loss Security program and efforts to ensure better access to workplace accident insurance.

The police chief added that laborers and ride-hailing drivers can also access health services at police-run Bhayangkara hospitals.

He said the police would continue improving the Police Labor Desk service at regional and district police offices to assist workers with employment-related issues.

To enhance safety for ride-hailing drivers, Listyo also instructed regional police chiefs to develop a panic button application that drivers can use to report crimes such as robbery or violence.

“I urge regional police chiefs to immediately prepare a panic button application to protect our online motorcycle taxi drivers from becoming victims of crime on the streets,” he said.

The initiative is part of broader efforts by authorities to strengthen public safety while supporting workers and informal-sector drivers across Indonesia.