GEORGE TOWN – An electronic systems manufacturer in Prai has come under fire over the alleged mistreatment of its workers by not providing them with free Covid-19 tests and failing to set standard operating procedures (SOPs).
As a consequence, several of its employees are now ill and have been admitted to the intensive care unit.
NationGate Solution (M) Sdn Bhd had allegedly issued a “controversial” memo, which has since gone viral, to its workers.
The circular states that employees who are unwell and need to take a Covid-19 test will have to get approval from their persons-in-charge and medical attention from Health Ministry clinics, as those are cheaper.
The company will not provide RT-PCR or RTK-Ag tests effective immediately, it added.
However, it will cover the cost of the test for employees who are already confirmed positive for Covid-19.
Some workers have also claimed that the manufacturer expects 100% attendance, although no SOPs have been set.
An official from its subsidiary NationGate Systems, however, has rubbished allegations that SOPs are not in place at the plant.
The official said he has been clocking into the Prai plant daily, and is aware of claims that proper SOPs have not been established.
He told The Vibes that the company has ensured SOP compliance.
“It does not make sense that the company would not adhere to SOPs after putting in initial investment to aggressively manage the situation.”
He said the memo was taken out of context and highlighted only the negative part.
The circular is meant to encourage workers to be responsible of their own well-being when off factory grounds, he added.
“After investigating some cases at the company, we realise that there are employees who are taking things for granted when the company is trying its best to keep everyone safe.
“There are young workers who think that they will not ‘get it’ (Covid-19), and even if they do, they believe they are young and will recover from Covid-19 after quarantine.
“So, if they get Covid-19, they think it is okay because they can stay at home, not work, and still get paid.
“But when they get infected and come into the factory, they endanger others who come to work as well. The company just wants everyone to stay safe.”
NationGate Solution has a system where those who enter its premises have to punch in and scan the MySejahtera QR code beforehand. This has been tightened, with only low-risk or symptom-free individuals allowed to enter.
As of yesterday, a hospital staffer, who declined to be identified, confirmed that they have received a few Covid-19 cases from the company. – The Vibes, June 29, 2021
