Conflict and Resistance in Oil Palm Corporation ; An Analysis of Corporate Relations, Labor, and The ‘Ninja’ Phenomenon at Aceh Tamiang
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29103/icospolhum.v4i.374Keywords:
Oil Palm Plantation, Bargaining Power, , Conflict and Resistance, Unequal Distribution of Benefits, NinjaAbstract
This paper discusses the situation of oil palm plantations in Kecamatan Seruway, Aceh Tamiang. In terms of historical trajectory, the plantations in Kecamatan Seruway have undergone various changes in land ownership, starting from the Dutch colonial era with rubber as the primary commodity, transitioning to involvement with DI/TII members, and eventually obtaining rights as Hak Guna Usaha (HGU) under the name of PT Mopoli Raya. Although some land is owned by the local community bordering the company's HGU, conflicts that arise tend to be related to labor rights perceived as commodities within the oil palm plantation. Using a descriptive qualitative research approach, the results of field research indicate that conflicts in Kecamatan Seruway are closely related to the relationship between the corporate plantation and its workers. While there have been some negotiation efforts by former members of the Oil Palm Workers Union regarding wages, production processes, and inhumane management practices, the primary conflicts appear to revolve around labor issues. However, the oil palm companies are deeply integrated into the daily life of the community, given the overlapping locations with their HGU areas. The presence of these companies has raised awareness that they should provide benefits to the community, whether through corporate social responsibility, local labor recruitment, or smallholder plantation schemes. The community recognizes the importance of playing a role in negotiations with the company, and formal village head positions are considered one means to enhance bargaining power in interactions with the company. However, the 'Ninja' phenomenon, which involves the theft of oil palm fruit within HGU areas, has emerged as a form of resistance to the perceived uneven distribution of benefits from the plantation. Overall, conflicts in Kecamatan Seruway are related to the relationship between the oil palm company and its workers, as well as the community's efforts to obtain benefits from the company's presence. The 'Ninja' phenomenon reflects resistance to the unequal distribution of benefits from the plantation
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