Don’t allow retrenchments during MCO, say unions

PETALING JAYA: Two unions have called on the government to prevent employers from retrenching workers as the movement control order (MCO) comes into force.

The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) said it had previously proposed for emergency employment rules to be implemented to stop companies from sacking their workers and cutting benefits.

“To date, the human resources ministry has not given any feedback on the proposal,” it said.

MTUC said it received many complaints of retrenchments during the first MCO last March and expects more workers to lose their jobs this time around.

“MTUC hopes the government will think of measures to help affected workers like subsidies for electricity and internet (bills) or bring back the loan moratorium or any aid for bottom 40 (B40) and middle 40 (M40) workers.”

National Union of Bank Employees (NUBE) secretary-general J Solomon said Putrajaya must issue a “stern warning” against retrenchments.

“(This must be) followed by tough implementation of laws that require employers to keep their workers and not use the new MCO to further reduce their workforce,” he said in a separate statement.

Solomon said the government must also ensure B40 workers are taken care of, particularly those who are paid daily wages, and called for cash aid to be quickly distributed to workers.

He also urged the government to publicise any aid given to companies so the public can see if they really deserve help.

“We know for a fact that many irresponsible employers in the tourism and hospitality industry who have reaped billions of profits over the years seem to be acting irresponsibly by laying off workers during the pandemic since early 2020.

​“An independent committee should be formed from the public with no political attachment to ensure and oversee the subsidies from the government is executed for its intended purpose.”

Penang, Selangor, Sabah, Melaka, Johor and the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan are under MCO from today to Jan 26.