Waste sorters to receive protection as green-collar workers: MinisterRelated news: Indonesia targets major progress on waste by end of 2027Jakarta (ANTARA) -Indonesia's Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat said the government is seeking to change perceptions by replacing the term scavenger (pemulung) with "waste sorters" and recognising them as green-collar workers eligible for social protection.In a statement issued on Tuesday, Hidayat said the government is providing social protection for waste sorting workers, ensuring the shift toward a green economy also benefits those who have long played a vital role in managing waste. "We are replacing the term to waste sorters. They play a vital role as the forefront of waste sorting before waste reaches processing facilities. "This demonstrates the state’s commitment to ensuring that all workers, both formal and informal, have access to social safety nets when facing work-related risks," Yassierli said. Translator: Prisca Triferna, Resinta SulistiyandariEditor: Fransiska NindityaCopyright © ANTARA 2026