KUALA LUMPUR – After pressure from Lawmakers in Dewan Rakyat today, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri M. Saravanan has agreed to look into existing legislation and push for review relating to informal workers.
Among the concerns brought up in the House include the protection of informal workers, that goes beyond the one-off financial aid.
Others asked for the easing of conditions for gig workers and the expansion of the social security net so those aged above 16 will be protected.
Saravanan said these issues are bound by certain legislation but will push for a review so the fate of the working class will be taken care of.
“We are now faced with a problem where we need to care for the needy without any excuses.”
Meanwhile, he has received complaints where some companies have misused the Employees Retention Programme (ERP) and the Wage Subsidy Programme (PSU), resulting in the failure to channel the financial aid meant for qualified employees.
“These companies have been identified and blacklisted. Some of the companies have been referred to MACC for further action. As for those companies who have not received the funds, please send me the names.
“Although there are few issues that have been brought forward, as a whole, the programme is deemed a success. Every programme has its flaws. We cannot run away from these flaws and mistakes. But as a whole, PSU has managed to save more than 300,000 companies and safeguarded 2.72 million jobs,” he said.
Under the ERP and PSU programme, employees whose salaries were under RM4,000 would receive a RM600 monthly subsidy for a maximum of six months.
Saravanan said that the main focus of the country now is to generate, maintain and stimulate the economy while reducing the unemployment rate in the country.
He also hoped that the budget will be supported by the opposition so the plans to help those who have lost their jobs and companies that need financial help will be carried out accordingly. – The Vibes, November 24, 2020
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