Apparently, the HR Ministry is discussing with SOCSO as whether and how a benefit scheme for retrenched workers could be established. Nevertheless, the scheme might take some time to be implemented as existing laws might need to be amended and new policies introduced, HR Minister Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam was quoted to have said.
Where did we hear that before? Most likely this has risen because of the Nikko retrenchment debacle in July.
I just have one thing to point out. Evident in Malaysian media is how there’s a lot of fanfare when something new is announced. This just tapers off until everything is forgotten. So in the end, the public remains unaware:
- if the programme/scheme etc. has been introduced
- of how to go about doing/participating in the programme/scheme
- of how much red tape is involved
- if the programme/scheme etc. is effective
The worst thing is these programmes or schemes are shelved when a new minister comes in. Recently, in the Tourism Ministry, we even saw a shift of policy when new state governments came into power. Where does this leave the rakyat? Obviously at the mercy of the whims and fancies of the powers-that-be.
So let’s see when the legislation is amended, the new policies introduced, and if the scheme actually works.
In the meantime, what do you think?
As an aside, apparently SOCSO has paid out RM900 mill in compensation for industrial actions and occupational diseases last year.
Posted on 29/07/2008
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