NILAI – The Human Resources Ministry has received 1,120 complaints against employers related to movement control order standard operating procedure (SOP) violations from May 25 up to yesterday.
Minister Datuk Seri M. Saravanan said among the complaints include bosses forcing staffers to work overtime and the physical presence of staff in offices that exceeds the limit allowed by the authorities.
He added that all the complaints are being investigated by the ministry through the Labour Department, which has been empowered by the National Security Council to issue a fine of up to RM50,000 against employers found guilty of flouting SOPs.
“Please, in the current situation, (employers) do not take advantage.
“When we take action, do not blame the government. Breaking the Covid-19 infection chain is the responsibility of all parties.
“When the government asks to reduce the number of employees at the workplace, follow SOPs. That’s all.”
He said the ministry is not involved in the authorisation of economic sector operations and work travel permits via the Covid-19 Intelligence Management System 3.0.
However, it has the power to order companies that breach SOPs to be closed, he added.
On the compliance of Act 446, Saravanan said the ministry, so far, has inspected 19,010 employers, involving 106,593 worker accommodations, nationwide.
A total of 742 investigation papers have been opened under the Act, with 125 cases prosecuted, of which 49 involved fines amounting to RM352,000. – Bernama, June 4, 2021
