"Union Leader urges landlord to reconsider raising rental house fees", 30 August 2024

A trade union representative, Kim Chansamnang, urgently implored landlords to refrain from renting additional houses following the recent increase in the minimum wage for the garment, footwear, and travel goods industries…

“Every year, we are always worried about the increase of minimum wages for both goods or house rents, so please call the landlord who rents the house and room for garment workers not to increase when the minimum wage is soon,” he said.

Sam Soeun, a representative of the Workers Professional Organization and President of the National Labor Union of Cambodia (NLC), stressed that workers are deeply concerned about inflation and rising market prices.

“For instance, when the workers’ wage is raised, it’s a moment of hope. But when inflation surges, and some landlords hike rents, that hope is dashed, and the increased wage becomes a mere number on paper, not a real benefit for the workers,” he said.

The second new minimum wage meeting for garment, footwear, and travel goods industries was held at the Ministry of Labor. The workers’ representatives are asking for an increase of $14, while the employers’ side has proposed a $1 raise, which could significantly affect the housing market…