KUALA LUMPUR, SEPT 24 – The Central Government is criticised for not keeping their word about changing the status of contract workers to permanent positions as promised in the Barisan Nasional manifesto during the 13th General Election.
Workers’ activist and MP of Kuala Langat Abdullah Sani has urged the Federal Government to not proceed with what he describes as modern slavery, and to provide a permanent status to contract workers who have been in service for three years and over.
Quoting the President of Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) Datuk Osman Omar’s media statement, Abdullah Sani revealed that the number of contract workers have been estimated to be approximately 49,000 people, while the number of vacancies in service have reached over 100,000.
“I have been informed that the Deputy District Officer also has a contract. I was told that there are contract workers in the Parliament itself, even though they have been working for five years.
“This is abuse. The Minister claimed these contract workers receive the same benefits as permanent employees. However, as far as I know, they do not even enjoy benefits such as maternity leaves, bonuses, and such. How long should they bear these burdens?” he asked.
Yesterday, Dato’ Seri Shahidan Kassim said that the government has no intention to change the status of contract workers to become permanent workers.
“This proves that the BN manifesto is just propaganda for votes,” said Abdullah.
Meanwhile, Batu Kawan MP Kasthuri Patto also raised the plight of contract workers’ whose services have been extended until December 2014.
“This matter is serious when there are 100,000 job vacancies. What’s wrong with changing their status?” he asked.