I REFER to a news report published by FocusM on Nov 10 alleging that I had taken sides in a corporate dispute and had made a U-turn on unpaid fines imposed on Johor-based ATA IMS Bhd.
I wish to reiterate that the role of the Human Resources Ministry (MOHR) and I has always been centred on the need to ensure that the welfare of the Malaysian workforce is adequately protected and cared for, and that all legislation pertaining to the wellbeing of workers are enforced.
One of the key responsibilities of the minister and the MOHR since the outbreak of COVID-19 is to ensure that Malaysians who depend on working to sustain their livelihoods remain employed and those seeking employment, are employable.
It is for this reason that when allegations of biasness are directed towards me or the ministry, it is investigated and proper action is taken to correct the situation.
It is my responsibility as the Human Resources Minister to resolve issues without jeopardising the livelihood of thousands of workers still in the employ of ATA IMS which I had visited a few days ago.
Therefore, it must be stressed that the contract between ATA IMS and Dyson Ltd is not part of the ambit or under the purview of the minister or the MOHR.
The issue of unpaid fines by ATA IMS is not part of the current allegations made with regard to the contract between the two parties. The fines were given out by an agency under the ministry and this will be followed through without any interference from MOHR.
Scope of ministry’s reach
In regards to the issue of labour shortage, this has been a perennial problem made worse by the pandemic, as many foreign workers had left the country and could not return to work in Malaysia. This issue is not limited to the manufacturing industry.
All questions with regards to business decisions made by ATA IMS and Dyson Ltd should be directed to these two parties, and is of no concern to the minister or the MOHR.
However, my immediate concern as the Human Resources Minister is the welfare of ATA IMS’s employees, and it is for this reason that I found it incumbent to make an urgent visit to this factory to ensure that allegations of workers mistreatment is investigated.
I visited the workers accommodation and found it to be in a satisfactory condition. I have also held a discussion with ATA IMS’ management as well as met general workers during this visit.
While I welcome feedback and criticism, I urge all parties to be fair and to await the outcome of investigations before making accusations. – Dec 11, 2021
Datuk Seri M Saravanan is Malaysia’s Minister of Human Resources.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
