Factory shut down! - Workers fury as boss flees

FACTORY SHUT DOWN !

WORKERS FURY AS BOSS FLEES ………….

Cosmoplus Industries shut down abruptly leaving more than a 100 workers dry and shocked. Until the last minute, they were still doing overtime until they received a one paragraph letter telling them that their work has been terminated.

It was a 24 hour notice. This morning workers gathered outside the factory but the gates were closed and guarded by Guards employed by the Bank which have sealed the factory claiming that the factory has gone bankrupt.

Workers expressed their frustration by carrying placards and shouting slogans against their boss, who until the end squeezed them dry and high. The workers were not paid their last month salary as well as compensations. Some of the workers have worked since the factory started some 18 years ago. A large number of workers were also seen lamenting as Deepavali were just two away and they need money.

It is believed that the company is owned by share holders from Singapore and manufacturers plastic mould. Also frustrating was that some workers have evidence that a few days ago, the company has moved some of the machinery to another factory in Asa Jaya. When workers asked if the company was shutting down, the Manager denied and this denial was until the last minute.

At the factory today were press reporters as well as representatives from JERIT and PSM. The Coalition of Workers and Factory (GPKK-JERIT) has previously demanded that the Government set up a retrenchment fund like EPF and SOCSO for retrenched workers. The idea which was supported by MTUC was rejected by the employer’s association. The spineless Government of Badawi has since not implemented this legislation. Under the current practice, once a company goes bankrupt, it would take years for the compensation to be paid and in most cases workers will not see a single cent at end of the day.

The government should look seriously on this matters.

Culprits must be taken into the action and they must be answerable to the Justice.

Steven
stands4justice@gmail.com