By Min Ni Kyaw - Jul 05, 2025

Workers have reported to the Solidarity Trade Union of Myanmar that POLY CLOTHING Co.,Ltd (also known as Mintharlay MTL Garment), which located near the West Yangon Technological University in Hlaingtharya Township, has been forcing them to work overnight overtime on alternate days since May.

The factory, which manufactures UK-origin Minoti brand, pressures workers to work overnight overtime, and those who refuse are subjected to threats and intimidation from supervisors, leading them to work even when unwell, workers said.

“We are exhausted and fall ill, sometimes unable to show up to work as we have to do overnight overtime on alternating days,” they said.

Supervisors at the factory deduct regular attendance bonuses and grade bonuses from workers who cannot work overtime. Workers also said they face threats and pressure if they refuse to work overtime.

“Supervisor Daw Win Pa Pa tells workers who can’t do overtime not to bother coming to the factory the next day,” said the sewing workers.

Workers stated that POLY CLOTHING Co.,Ltd is owned by Chinese citizen and employs around 300 workers.