KUALA LUMPUR – Human Resources Minister Steven Sim has warned employers against arbitrarily deducting wages from employees affected by disasters such as floods.
Sim called on employers to empathise and compromise, emphasising that wage deduction is governed by the Employment Act 1955 in Peninsular Malaysia and the Labour Ordinance for Sabah and Sarawak.
“Wages cannot be deducted except as specified by law, such as for regular tax deductions, EPF, Socso, and so on.
“In cases such as floods, I urge employers or employees who need guidance on work arrangements to come forward or contact the labour office,” he said after launching the Kampung Angkat Madani Kesuma Kg Baru Alma today, Bernama reported.
He also said that the Human Resources Ministry is ready to help in ensuring work arrangements and that specific actions related to salary and work arrangements during such disasters can be addressed harmoniously.
Emphasising that the government understands the uncontrollable nature of disasters, he said compromise is needed to foster a harmonious relationship between several quarters and to ensure things run smoothly.
Sim cited a similar approach previously taken when there were water supply disruptions, and many employers and employees were unsure how to adjust working hours, leave, and other arrangements.
“I urge them to come forward to the Labour Department, and we will provide guidance to both parties to maintain mutual understanding and facilitate work-related issues during a crisis,” he said. – November 30, 2024