The Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) stands in unwavering solidarity with the affected employees of the Malaysian Insight, the Vibes and Getaran in their fight for justice and their rightful demand for unpaid wages and statutory contributions from Petra News Sdn Bhd.
We commend the 15 media workers for their courage in lodging a police report in an attempt to hold their (former) employer accountable.
It is deeply concerning that in the current Malaysian media landscape, media workers continue to fight for the bare minimum – fair wages, timely payments and legally mandated contributions.
The failure of Petra News Sdn Bhd to remit Employees Provident Fund (EPF), monthly tax deductions (PCB) and Social Security Organisation (Socso) contributions – despite deducting them from employees’ salaries – is not just a breach of trust but a blatant violation of labour laws.
These unlawful actions threaten the very foundation of the critical role of media as the fourth estate of democracy.
A free and independent media cannot exist without the protection of the rights and the guarantee of fair, safe and dignified working conditions for those who uphold it.
Thus, we urge the following:
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- The authorities, including the Department for Labour and relevant ministries to act decisively and with no further delays in providing the necessary legal protection, durable solutions and ensuring accountability. The repeated absence of enforcement action against Petra News Sdn Bhd despite documented evidence and official complaints is deeply concerning and undermines the credibility of labour protections in Malaysia
- The government must take swift action to prevent further exploitation of media workers and guarantee that their rights are protected and they face no reprisals in holding their (former) employer accountable
- Petra News Sdn Bhd to immediately fulfil its obligations and work towards a constructive resolution.
It is time for action and accountability! – CIJ
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
