By Myo Thein - Oct 23, 2025
Workers from Myanmar Huasheng Kefu Fashion Co., Ltd told the Industrial Workers Federation of Myanmar (IWFM) that they are facing ongoing violations of their rights, including being forced to work overtime and being dismissed illegally.
They said the employer constantly calls for overtime shifts, and although many workers do not want to work beyond their hours, they are pressured into doing so.
“They called for overtime even during the Thadingyut holidays. We had to work overtime until 4:30 PM before the holiday, on Saturday. Some workers wanted to return to their villages on time for the holiday, but we were forced into overtime,” said one worker.
There were also cases where workers were forced to sign attendance for overtime shifts, and if they refused, a Chinese Finishing supervisor threatened during a meeting that they would be transferred out of their department, according to workers.
It was also reported that 15 workers were dismissed without any official warning or disciplinary process, simply because they brought snacks and cigarettes into the workplace.
“We weren’t eating snacks or smoking on the job. We just brought them to eat and smoke during break time. It’s not a serious violation, but they fired us,” one worker said.
Workers also reported that legal entitlements like casual and sick leave were rarely granted. The employer deducts 11,000 kyats in attendance and support bonuses if a worker misses a day. and 25,000 kyats from regular wages. Missing two days leads to a full 50,000 kyats wage deduction.
“They don’t allow any casual or sick leave. Even if we report the reason, nothing changes. Gate passes and leave requests are ignored no matter how much we ask. We have to force ourselves to show up even when we’re unwell,” said one worker.
Workers also claimed that over 50 young and underage workers aged 15 to 16 are employed without proper medical approval, and they are made to work the same as adult workers.
Myanmar Huasheng Kefu Fashion Co., Ltd is a garment factory located on Mya Khatter Road, Mya Sein Yaung Industrial Zone, Hlaingtharyar Township, Yangon Region. The factory employs over 800 workers and is owned by a Chinese citizen. It is known to manufacturing the Sinsay brand.
