Unionists walk free

JAKARTA: The Tangerang District Court declared two labor activists, Sofyan Bedot and Surjito, innocent of antisocial behavior on Monday.

Sofyan and Surjito charged under Article 335 of the Criminal Code after a heated discussion with representatives of PT Dwi Naga Sakti Abadi, producer of Homyped sandals and shoes. The men had demanded the company increase the workers' meal allowance from Rp 1,250 (US cents 12) to Rp 2,500.

PT Dwi Naga Sakti Abadi later fired 35 workers who were labor union members, citing efficiency measures. It also reportedly instructed its security officers to convince its employees to quit the union.

The head of Jakarta Legal Aid Institute's labor division, Rita Olivia, said in a media release that the institute hailed the verdict, saying it was proof that there was still justice for workers.

Earlier this month, labor activist Hamdani was sentenced to two months and 14 days in prison after being accused of stealing a pair of reject sandals. -- JP