Over 5,000 workers go on strike

JAKARTA (JP): Some 5,150 employees of three private companies in Jakarta, Bekasi and Bogor went on strike Thursday to demand better wages and allowances.

The strike which started at 9 a.m. was sparked by PT API in East Jakarta, PT SKI in Bogor and PT KC in Bekasi threatening to suspend their workers over their demands.

The Pos Kota daily reported yesterday some 1,500 employees of PT API demanded better night pay rates and increases in meal and transportation allowances. They said they only receive Rp 104,000 (US$44.25) a month.

"We have been working for more than two years but we are still regarded as casual workers despite being paid on a monthly basis," one of the workers said.

Abdul Choir, a manager of PT API, said the company will employ new workers if they do not return to work.

He said the company has fulfilled one of the workers' demands and increased its night rate by Rp 500 to Rp 1,000 extra per night.

At least 500 workers of PT SKI filed complaints with the Bogor regency's council.

They demanded the company rehire workers dismissed for requesting workers' insurance, which is obligatory by law.

Some 150 workers of PT KC also demanded the company rehire suspended colleagues. (jun)