Minimum wage deadline approaches

“There have been a series of talks between employers and employees on fixing the minimum wage, probably in the third week. We are under pressure regarding this matter. I think it should be finalised soon,” said Myo Aung.
He said that the information submitted by the region and state minimum wage fixing committees on the average costs per person as well as the discussions between the deputy minister and employees are sufficient.
He added that this month, the national central committee, responsible for the fixing of the minimum wage, will hold discussions on the issue. Then a forum, comprising of all concerned organisations, will take place shortly.
The ministry has collected data from 2,232 households in 108 townships across the country, including Nay Pyi Taw, to help fix the rate.
The national committee will fix suitable minimum wage based on suggestions from the forum.
Under the law, the rate will be publicised and submitted to the government and Parliament after 60 days of consultation.
Employees are saying they will not agree to the minimum wage below Ks4,000 a day or approximately US$4. On May Day, more than 150 workers in Yangon Region called for the daily wage of Ks5,600.
Wai Wai Khaing, a union member, said: “We demand a minimum wage of Ks5,600 per day. The Ks1,500 proposed by factory owners is very difficult to survive on. Monthly rent is at least Ks35,000. A bundle of water grass is about Ks200. It will be difficult for us if we don’t get Ks4,500 a day.”
Myo Aung admitted that this is a major problem.
“The majority of employees want at least Ks4,000. But some employers won't pay this amount. The employers worry that they will face losses if employees don’t perform their duties properly.”
He added that each worker now shoulders the average daily expense of between Ks3,000-Ks4,000.