Questionable transfers and dismissals of union leaders

Two union leaders at PT Sumatera Jaya Agro Lestari (SJAL), Ms. Yublina Yuliana Oematan and Mr. Irdjan Bahrudin Dode, were abruptly transferred within plantations of the Gunas Group in January 2026 and later dismissed. Both union representatives, their case is detailed in the 23 February press statement issued by the FSBKS‑KB federation. Analysing the series of events the federation sees signs of retaliation actions against the union leaders.

Photo: Istock/Anks Rachman

Violation of workers’ and trade union rights

Both leaders have long-standing roles in the PT SJAL Plantation Workers Union and the West Kalimantan Palm Oil Plantation Labor Union Federation (FSBKS-KB), which legally entitles them to special protections. The forced transfer and dismissal of Yublina and Irdjan does not only violate Indonesian labour law but also breach international standards on freedom of association.

Transfer scheme without consent

The transfers were issued without consultation, justification, or guarantees regarding wages, job status, or housing. The receiving plantations are 190–195 km away, with an additional 160–180 km of poor road conditions, making relocation unfeasible—especially for Ms. Oematan, a woman worker with family responsibilities. The receiving plantations stated they were not informed or prepared for the incoming workers, and housing was not yet available.

Dismissal because of absence from work

When Yublina and Irdjan formally rejected the transfers, the SJAL management insisted the decision was final. In February, both receiving companies issued dismissal letters, claiming absence from work—despite the fact that the workers had never agreed to be employed there. These dismissals relied on company regulations that were never properly communicated or registered with authorities, making them invalid.

Impact and advocacy of the union leaders

Yublina has been a strong voice for women workers and a key figure challenging harmful company practices. Through research and international advocacy with IPOWU (International Palm Oil Workers United), she has highlighted the rights of palm oil workers worldwide in the palm oil industry, especially those of female plantation workers. She has spoken at international IPOWU–Mondiaal FNV events in the Netherlands and Colombia, and at national forums such as the 3rd International IPOWU Conference in Jakarta and activities with the University of Tanjungpura.

Irdjan has exposed labour rights violations and contributed to international research, including studies by the Netherlands-based institute Profundo on agrochemical risks in the palm oil sector. As a certified occupational safety instructor and Head of Education and Organization in the federation, he has been active in promoting worker safety and rights.

Clear signs of union busting

The timing and manner of the transfers suggest retaliation:

Under Indonesian law, transfers cannot be used as punishment and prohibits employers from interfering in union activities through intimidation, transfers, or dismissals. Forcing workers to move between separate legal entities without their consent may also amount to forced labour.

Broader Implications for global supply chains

PT SJAL supplies major international brands, including Nestlé, ADM, Kao, Barry Callebaut, Wilmar, and Reckitt—companies that publicly commit to respecting labour rights. The actions taken against Yublina and Irdjan indicate serious shortcomings in human rights due diligence within the Gunas Group and its global buyers.

Demands from workers and their unions

The unions call for:

Mondiaal FNV and partner unions urge all stakeholders—local authorities, law enforcement, and international buyers—to ensure immediate remediation and long-term protection for workers’ rights in the Gunas Group supply chain.

Read the full press release of FSBKS-KB