"Forced overtime; Wages are being cut and forced almost for free, and it is difficult to demand due to the political situation", 12 August 2022

MYANMAR DIXINDA Garment factory workers said that they are forced to work overtime, cut overtime [pay], [they are] not receiving legal benefits, being discriminated against, being forced to change their workplace, and under the current political situation.

The garment factory was opened at the corner of Padam Ward, Anaw Railway and Erawati Road, Anawratha Industrial Zone, Hlaingtharya, Yangon Region. It…operates with more than 600 workers. It sews brands such as…GRATEX.

"Workers are forced to work overnight, all-night shifts, and if the workers want to sleep the next day [and] take time off work, [the manager does not pay] them overtime…” said a worker who works at the factory...

In addition…workers are not entitled to the benefits of the law, such as holidays and medical leave.

"Without the consent of the workers, the employer is constantly calling for overtime…and even if they don't take time off, they face discrimination…[Workers] have to take the day off if they don't take OT, and they pay only 4,800 without overtime pay." A worker said.

The workers, who did not want to be named, said that despite such violations, they were not allowed to speak about the situation during the military dictatorship due to the political situation of the time.

[Workers demands:]

1. To correctly clear workers' overtime OT fees from employers.
2. To [not let] the overtime [workers who] have not slept at night…be manipulated by the Hr manager…
3. To fix the time when the workers leave and go to work.
4. To call [workers for] overtime only if the workers wish.
5. The workers said that they want [management] to allow the workers to enjoy the leave and working holidays that they are entitled to.

[Translation via Google Translate]