Workers protest low wages

MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi: Thousands of workers from various unions in South Sulawesi officially refused on Tuesday the Regional Wage Council's decision on monthly minimum wages of Rp 275,000 for new workers effective next year.

Chandrayana, spokesman for the workers union Serikat Pekerja/Serikat Buruh (SPSB) told reporters here that the amount was too small, and SPSB had proposed Rp 426,000 a month.

SPSB, with eight workers union as its members, was not consulted by the wage council in the wage decision.

The current minimum wage in South Sulawesi is Rp 225,000 per month.

"Don't force us to take tough action," Chandrayana said, adding that SPSB had met with deputy governor Abbas Sabbi. "Implementing the new wage decision would be very dangerous. A big strike may take place."

The Regional Wage Council has members from the administration, businessmen and workers representatives (unions). As SPSB does not recognize the Council, it was not involved in any of the discussions leading to the decision.

The Council's decision on the new minimum wages is in line with the implementation of regional autonomy laws effective on Jan. 1, 2001. (27/sur)