Bus operator threatened with fines after drivers' strike leaves thousands stranded on Causeway
The warning comes after a bus drivers' strike at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI), which left thousands of commuters stranded on Monday (July 21).
The abrupt strike took place around 6.30am, with drivers refusing to transport passengers into Singapore until the strike ended at 8am. Some commuters reportedly resorted to walking the 1.05km stretch from BSI into Singapore on foot.
"An investigation by the Labour Department revealed that the strike was triggered by unexplained salary deductions, allegations of unpaid overtime, and the termination of the employees' Special Duty Allowance without notice.
"The Johor-based firm was found to have violated the Employment Act in the past, with company drivers recorded working over 104 overtime hours per month. Despite this, many were reluctant to file official complaints for fear of repercussions," said the ministry in a statement on Tuesday (July 22).
Two investigation papers have since been opened against the company under the Act.
The ministry emphasised that all employers must comply with the provisions under the Employment Act, particularly concerning salary deductions.
Workers facing issues with illegal salary deductions, unpaid overtime, or unfair treatment are encouraged to file official complaints with the Labour Department via its hotline at 03-8886 5192/5937 or through email to jtksm@mohr.gov.my.
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