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)