THE National Union of Bank Employees (NUBE) strongly rebuts the recent statement issued by Maybank and the Malayan Commercial Banks’ Association (MCBA) where they denied the allegations of harassment and mistreatment highlighted by NUBE.
Maybank and MCBA have falsely claimed that the sexual harassment case is before the courts, using this as an excuse to avoid commenting.
In reality, the case has not yet exhausted internal remedies or reached the reconciliation stage at the Industrial Relations Department (IRD), exposing their dishonesty. This behaviour is disgraceful for institutions responsible for public funds, which should uphold integrity.
A dispute can only be referred to court after all internal processes are completed and the minister, if necessary, refers it. Any bypass of this procedure, such as an express transfer to the Industrial Court by the minister once again, would be an abuse of power.
This statement, reported in the media, is yet another attempt by Maybank to mislead its employees, shareholders, and the public.
Misleading claims and manipulation tactics
Maybank’s assertion that “there have been no unfair actions as alleged by NUBE” is a blatant misrepresentation.
The bank’s troubling pattern of workplace misconduct is widespread and systemic, not isolated. A clear example is the ongoing case at the Bercham branch in Ipoh, where the evidence speaks for itself.
- Sexual harassment by Rosman Jamaluddin: On Oct 6, 2021 a young female employee at Maybank Bercham lodged a formal complaint against her superior (Rosman) for sending sexually explicit and inappropriate messages via WhatsApp. Despite her repeated attempts to seek protection, Maybank’s management did nothing to discipline the perpetrator, allowing him to continue in his role and further torment the victim.
- Retaliatory suspension of the victim: In Aug 2024, nearly three years after the initial harassment complaint, Maybank conducted a redundant investigation, further traumatising the victim. When she refused to participate and requested resolution at the national level in accordance to the dispute settlement process, the bank retaliated by suspending her. This action punishes the victim and serves as a warning to others who might speak out against injustices within Maybank.
- Violation of PNB’s ESG guidelines: Maybank’s handling of the Bercham incident directly violates largest stakeholder, Permodalan Nasional Berhad’s (PNB) ESG guidelines which prioritise human rights, fair labour practices, and a safe work environment. By failing to protect the victim and instead silencing her, Maybank breaches its own Group Dignity Policy and undermines the principles that PNB, as a responsible investor, upholds.
Respecting the legal process vs. obstructing justice
Maybank’s call for NUBE to “respect the process” is nothing more than a smokescreen.
While NUBE has always operated within the legal framework to protect the rights of its members, Maybank’s actions suggest that they are using the ongoing legal processes as a cover to delay and deny justice to the victim.
This is a classic tactic of misdirection, where the bank aims to exhaust the victim and any supporting parties into submission.
A call for accountability
NUBE urges all stakeholders, including PNB and the Malaysian government, to hold Maybank accountable for its actions.
It is crucial that the bank’s management, including CEO Datuk Khairussaleh Ramli and Datuk Brian Jit Singh, are made to answer for their failure to uphold the rights and dignity of their employees.
There is an urgent need to establish an independent body to investigate the integrity of bank top management, as their actions are undermining the credibility of financial institutions.
We also call on all NUBE members and the wider public to stand in solidarity with the victim and to continue to demand justice.
This fight is not just about one individual – it is about the fundamental rights of every worker in Malaysia to be treated with dignity and respect. – Aug 30, 2024
The National Union of Bank Employees (NUBE) is committed to ensuring the dignity, rights, and welfare of bank employees across Malaysia.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
