"Workers are in denial of their low wages and are demanding the government under President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to increase the minimum wage standard by 50 percent in 2014," said a protester.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - About five thousand workers from various unions held a rally in front of the Presidential Palace on Thursday, demanding an increase in their wages and the immediate implementation of the National Health Insurance (Jamkesmas).

The protesters conducted a marathon rally starting from the Indonesian Hotel area in Central Jakarta to the Presidential Palace, where they will centre their action.

The protesters brought banners and gave speeches with their demands to the government.

"Workers are in denial of their low wages and are demanding the government under President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to increase the minimum wage standard by 50 percent in 2014," said a protester.

The protesters are urging the government to revise the eligibility criteria for receiving financial support. This way, 156 million people will be able to receive financial aid, an increase from 86 million. The financial support is part of the government`s promise to compensate the poor, following the rise in fuel price recently.

Some of the protesters are from the Indonesian Metal Workers Federation (FSPMI), the Workers Union Confederation (KSPI), and the Indonesian Labours Union Association (ASPEK).(*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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