Biscuit workers go on protest

Biscuit workers go on protest

TANGERANG (JP): About 3,100 workers from the biscuit
manufacturing PT Mayora Group staged a protest demanding a 15
percent wage increase at the firm's complex on Jl. Telesonic in
Jatiuwung district here.

They also demanded that the firm provide them with meal and
transportation allowances.

Most of the workers sat along the road leading to the complex,
while others unfurled banners and posters under the watchful eye
of security officers.

"Please, go ahead with your protest, but don't damage company
property," shouted one of the officers.

The workers acknowledged they were paid in line with the
regional minimum wage of Rp 198,500 per month. "However the wage
does not include any allowances and we would like to clarify
this," said one of the workers who requested anonymity.

Sudiro, the firm's personnel manager, said that since no
workers' delegation presented themselves to discuss their
complaints with the management, the firm asked the protesters to
disperse.

He hoped the workers would return to work as usual today.

Commenting on the demand for a pay increase, Sudiro explained
that wages were increased last month in line with the new
regional minimum wage regulations. (41/hhr)