He said employers cannot arbitrarily deduct wages, as stipulated under the Employment Act 1955 in Peninsular Malaysia and the Labour Ordinance for Sabah and Sarawak, Bernama reported.

“Wages cannot be deducted except as specified by law, such as for regular tax deductions and contributions to EPF and Socso.

“In cases such as floods, I urge employers and employees who require guidance on work arrangements to contact the labour office,” he told reporters after the launch of the Kampung Angkat Madani Kesuma Kampung Baru Alma in Bukit Mertajam today.

Sim said his ministry was prepared to help employers and employees to amicably find solutions for work and salary matters during disasters.

He said disasters are beyond anyone’s control and, as such, a compromise is needed to foster a harmonious relationship between employers and their staff.

Similar measures were taken in the past during water supply disruptions, when companies faced uncertainties over work hours and leave.