Workers at Myanmar Kywe Chwan Shoe Factory in Hlaing Tharyar Township, Yangon Region, have been peacefully protesting since June 9 for increased wages. Despite five days of demonstrations, their demands remain unmet, and protesters report facing various forms of intimidation from factory management. The workers initially demanded a daily wage of 13,000 kyats but have since reduced their demand to 11,500 kyats per day. The factory management has not only refused to meet their demands but is also pressuring workers to remove protest-related content shared on social media platforms.
The workers continue their peaceful protests today, June 13, maintaining their revised demand for a daily wage of 11,500 kyats. According to the protesting workers, while some employees are fearful of the management’s intimidation tactics, many remain resolute in their demonstration efforts. Male protest leaders are encouraging female workers to maintain their participation and not lose hope. The workers emphasize that they will continue their protests until their minimum demand of 11,500 kyats per day is met. For context, workers at other factories are demanding daily wages of 13,000 kyats, overtime pay of 2,500 kyats, and monthly attendance bonuses of 60,000 kyats, while these workers are focusing solely on securing a fair daily wage rate.
The protesting workers have expressed their determination to continue their demonstrations for another week if necessary, maintaining their stance until their demands are met. They report that the factory management has been using various intimidation tactics against the protesters, but this has not deterred their resolve. The workers emphasize that their demand for increased wages is reasonable and necessary, particularly given the current economic conditions. Despite the pressure and intimidation from factory management, the workers remain committed to their peaceful protest, demonstrating unity and determination in their pursuit of fair wages. They continue to advocate for their rights through peaceful means, even as they face various challenges and pressure from factory management.
