Special committee set up to resolve labour-related issues
BINTULU: A special committee for Samalaju workers has been formed on Tuesday as a channel for workers and their employers to reach a mutual agreement and understanding on labourrelated issues.
Hiap Seng Malaysia Sdn Bhd director (operations) Song Tan when met yesterday said he was relieved the protest on Jan 28 has been solved and both parties reached a mutual agreement.
“The incident was caused by some misunderstanding between the workers and employer (Hiap Seng). It is now settled with a special committee being formed with several representatives among the workers in the committee,” he said.
He said they have been restructuring the salary scheme since it was the main reason that triggered the recent peaceful protest.
“To encourage the workers to work hard, we will allocate about RM10,000 per month as an incentive for the best workers. Some 30 to 50 outstanding workers will be chosen every month from various departments and rewarded,” he said.
Tan said they are committed to the development of Bintulu in the long term.
He also encouraged locals who have certain qualification in technical knowledge and expertise to apply for jobs with Hiap Seng, one of the sub-contractors in Samalaju Industrial Park.
He said if locals could not
The incident was caused by some misunderstanding between the workers and employer (Hiap Seng). It is now settled with a special committee being formed with several representatives among the workers in the committee. Song Tan, Hiap Seng Malaysia Sdn Bhd director (operations)
meet the standard requirement and qualification for some technical jobs, they have to recruit foreign expertise to fill the position.
Nevertheless he hoped there would be more local skilled manpower able to grab job opportunities in Samalaju.
Meanwhile Deputy Resident (Development) Sirai Daha hoped the incident would be made a guideline for both parties to avoid communication breakdown in the future.
He assured that the Resident’s Office and other related government agencies are open for negotiations or complaints, especially when it involves the rights and social wellbeing of the people.
Sirai advised the workers in Samalaju in particular to use the proper channel to address their problems, and the committee will play the role of mediator between them and their employers.
He warned the workers not to give in to provocation by some irresponsible parties with personal interests.
“The workers must have high discipline and protect the good image of fellow Sarawakians. I would also urge our local workers to live in peace and harmony with other foreign workers.
“Let us show our good culture in promoting peace and harmony,” Sirai added.
Bintulu police chief Superintendent Madang Usat who was also present at the Chinese New Year gathering organised by Hiap Seng in Samalaju yesterday advised Ibans known for their hardworking attitude to be more disciplined.
He said the police would not hesitate to take action against troublemakers.