Indonesia: Conflict between Indonesian and Chinese workers at Huayou, Vale & Ford-invested industrial park results in 4 arrested; incl. cos. responses
On 30 January 2026, reports released by Kompas indicate a conflict erupted between Indonesian and Chinese workers at the Pomalaa Industrial Park located in Kolaka, Southeast Sulawesi. The dispute stemmed from a wage dispute, with four Chinese workers allegedly assaulting two local workers. The incident reportedly sparked severe discontent among Indonesian employees within the park, leading to large-scale riots. Police arrested the four Chinese workers, with three convicted and one under witness status.
The Business and Human Rights Centre had invited investors of the Pomalaa Industrial Park, including Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt, PT Vale Indonesia Tbk., and Ford for comments. Their responses are as below.