Tens of thousands of Indonesian workers went on strike on Thursday in the latest in a series of labor protests to rock the Southeast Asian nation. The workers' attempt was to enjoy at least some of the stellar growth the country experienced. As usual, the event was followed by a war of figures on participation: police estimates speak of 100 workers, well below the three million expected by the unions, while workers' organizations counted two million participants in the first two days of strike.
The purpose of the strike was ask for a salary increase that counterbalanced the increase in the cost of living, especially in energy prices, which has risen a lot lately due to growing inflation.
Though attendance was lower than expected, many companies in the country were forced to shut down, halting production of clothing, consumer electronics products, often for international companies.
The largest number of strikers was registered in Jakarta and in the industrial area of Bekasi just outside the capital, with 60 workers crossing their arms. “I'm not asking to live in a castle or on a bed of gold. I just want my due for contributing to the country's economy,” said Achmad, 46, one of the strikers. The strikes took place in a peaceful atmosphere.
http://business.inquirer.net/150315/indonesia-hit-with-mass-strike-over-wage-hike-demands
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