PT DI workers told to stop protests

BANDUNG: West Java Governor Danny Setiawan asked workers from state-owned aircraft company PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PT DI) on Wednesday to cease their daily protest rallies against their suspension to curb potential security disturbances.

The demonstrations in Bandung had created a "big social cost", Setiawan said after a meeting with local military and police chiefs to discuss security in West Java.

"Instead of protests, I ask PT DI workers to send their representatives to the local legislative council, police or court to convey their grievances. It will be more effective and efficient."

PT DI suspended all its 9,643 workers on full pay last month, citing financial problems. They have since staged rallies outside the company compound and in other areas in Bandung.

Around 2,000 of the workers have returned to work after pressure for the company to annul the suspension. --JP