Over 5,000 workers go on strike

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)