By Hsu Latt Phyu - Jan 13, 2025
Due to rising commodity prices and financial hardships, approximately 400 workers are staging a protest inside their workplace to demand a wage increase, according to sources.
The protest is taking place at SHUANGXI MYANMAR GARMENTI CO., Ltd, located on Makhaya Min Thar Gyi Maung Pyo Street, Industrial Zone 2, Hlaing Thar Yar Township, Yangon Region. Reports indicate that the factory does not have a labor union.
This Chinese-owned garment factory reportedly produces SPLENDID SATISFACTION and HanTen branded apparel.
“The protest started on the 10th January. Workers have turned off the lights in the factory and are demanding a wage increase. The employer’s side, however, said they have called the military,” a worker stated.
The workers’ demands reportedly include raising the daily attendance bonus to 11,000 kyats, increasing the regular attendance allowance by 15,000 kyats, and paying a yearly bonus of 5,000 kyats per year of service.
“The demands haven’t been met yet. A former labor president is causing issues for the protesting workers. He’s saying that nothing will get resolved unless they speak through him. We are only making these demands because we no longer have enough money to cover dormitory fees and food expenses. We are requesting peacefully,” one worker explained.
Workers expressed that they hope the employer will negotiate peacefully and resolve the situation without involving military forces.
