Sim tells netizens to report labour issues before raising them online

Sim tells netizens to report labour issues before raising them online

The human resources minister says the authorities can only act when an official complaint is lodged.

Human resources minister Steven Sim said he appreciated the good intentions of people but they must come to the authorities first before posting anything on social media. (Bernama pic)
PUTRAJAYA:
Netizens should submit official reports about labour issues before discussing them on social media, human resources minister Steven Sim said.

“I know netizens have good intentions, posting on platforms like Facebook, Twitter and so on.

“However, this involves the law, so, we need official reports, for example, stating where, who and so on,” he said during an event here.

Sim’s statements come in the wake of a Feb 20 report by NST, where a renowned ramen company faced scrutiny for allegedly enforcing fees on workers taking sick leave and implementing arbitrary fines on them for alleged misconduct.

The report attracted widespread attention across various platforms, prompting many calls for the authorities to intervene.

According to the report, the food and beverage establishment enforced fines ranging from RM30 to RM500.

Sim said any disciplinary action must adhere to the respective company’s domestic inquiry process.

“This is indeed wrong. I urge anyone with information about violations of labour laws to come forward and make an official report.

“If, even after the report, there is no action or response, then you can escalate the matter. Without an official report, it’s very difficult for us to take action,” he said.

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