Call to abolish contract labour
Posted on 6 January 2013 - 09:28pm
Last updated on 7 January 2013 - 08:56am
Last updated on 7 January 2013 - 08:56am
KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 6, 2013): A
coalition of 20 trade unions and NGOs has called for the abolition of
contract labour, highlighting that the status allows for widespread
abuse without much needed protection for workers.
Malaysian Workers Network (MWN) coordinator A. Sivananthan said
workers hired by contractors suffered low wages, few medical and social
benefits, as well as lack of job security.
"Contract for labour has brought us back to the slavery stage.
"It is exploitation as these workers have minimal benefits compared
to permanent staff but in their desperation for a job, they normally
will sign the contract even if it is not in their favour," he said at a
press conference after the launch of the Workers' Manifesto today.
According to MWN, there are around 42,000 contract workers in the public sector alone.
National Union of Bank Employees assistant honorary general secretary
A. Karuna said if the government had a large number of contract
workers, then there would be more in the private sector.
"Contractor for labour is still legally permissible under the Employment Act 1955.
"Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam said in March that
contract workers would only be in the plantation sector, but it was a
verbal statement and the law remains unchanged," she said.
Karuna added that these workers did not deal directly with the
employers. As such, it was impossible for them to sue their employers
for mistreatment or exploitation.
Former international trade unionist P. Arunasalam said in the past 30
years, in-house unions have been the popular option as they are created
by the employers.
"It is hard to get such a union recognised; they're too small to make
any difference and cannot afford to bring the employer to court.
"If the existing unions do not unite and create a labour movement, this whole fight will be in vain," he said.
In the manifesto, MWN demanded the implementation of a RM1,500
minimum wage, the recognition of workers' rights and ensuring the
welfare of workers with focus on women, among others.
Oppressed People Network national coordinator S. Parames said copies
of the manifesto with an endorsement form attached will be sent to all
political parties ahead of the 13th general election. - Sun Daily, 6/1/2013, Call to abolish contract labour
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