Cigarette workers go on strike

BLORA, Central Java: Some 1,500 employees of local cigarette company PT Unggul Jaya staged a protest in the company's compound in Jepon village on Thursday, demanding a salary hike and fitting transport and meal allowances.

"My salary is only enough to buy basic needs," said Sukirman, 38, the rally coordinator.

The workers demanded a Rp 250,000 average monthly wage. The local government sets the minimum regional salary at Rp 230,000 per month.

The group dispersed peacefully after the management promised to fulfill their demands. (har/edt)