Chairul Hadi
Muhamad Chairul Hadi: A Decade Defending Migrant Workers, Followed by Service to Indonesian Fishermen
Muhamad Chairul Hadi is a figure who has dedicated a significant part of his professional journey to championing the rights and welfare of workers, with a strong track record in both the migrant worker and fisheries sectors. His extensive career demonstrates a sustained commitment to social justice and the betterment of workers’ lives.
A Decade of Service with the Indonesian Migrant Workers Union (SBMI) (2004 – 2014):
For ten years, from 2004 to 2014, Muhamad Chairul Hadi devoted himself to the cause through the Indonesian Migrant Workers Union (SBMI). During this significant period, he was deeply involved in various aspects of protecting and empowering Indonesian migrant workers. His contributions included:
- Policy Advocacy and Case Management: He was at the forefront of efforts to secure better policies for migrant workers, as well as handling numerous complex cases they faced, ranging from labor disputes and abuse to human trafficking. His decade of experience provided him with a profound understanding of the root problems and challenges confronting migrant workers.
- Organizational Strengthening and Networking: He played an active role in building and strengthening SBMI as a solid organization, and in establishing networks with various parties, both domestically and internationally, to broaden the scope of protection for migrant workers.
- Empowerment and Education: He promoted empowerment programs for migrant workers and their families, and raised awareness of their rights through various educational activities and campaigns.
His decade of dedication at SBMI made a tangible contribution to laying a better foundation for protection and strengthening the voice of Indonesian migrant workers.
Leading as Secretary-General of the Indonesian Fisherman Association (INFISA) (2014 – 2025):
After concluding his service with SBMI, Muhamad Chairul Hadi continued his mission in 2014 by taking on the role of Secretary-General of the Indonesian Fisherman Association (INFISA). As of 2025 (the current year), he has led the INFISA secretariat for over a decade, bringing his advocacy experience to focus on the challenges and opportunities within the fisheries sector.
In his role at INFISA, he has focused on:
- Organizational Governance and Strategic Programs: As Secretary-General, he is responsible for the operations and implementation of INFISA’s strategic programs aimed at enhancing the professionalism and welfare of Indonesian fishermen, including those working internationally.
- Advocacy for Fishermen’s Interests: Voicing the interests of Indonesian fishermen in various forums, both to the government and industry stakeholders, regarding vital issues such as fishing regulations, access to capital, social security, and legal protection, especially for fishermen working on foreign vessels.
- Fishermen Capacity Development: Driving initiatives to improve the capacity and competence of Indonesian fishermen to compete globally, in line with INFISA’s vision of making Indonesian fishermen highly competitive. This vision is highly relevant for migrant fishermen working in the global fishing industry.
- Domestic and International Cooperation: Building and maintaining cooperation with various institutions, both at national and international levels, to support INFISA’s programs and expand protection networks and opportunities for Indonesian fishermen.