A switch in workday patterns from the current 2-shift model to a 3-shift shift model is one of the steps that manufacturers can take to eliminate forced labour practices and attract more local workers while decreasing their reliance on foreign labour.
Co-Founder of Malaysia HR Forum and Social Compliance Malaysia Chapter, Arulkumar Singaraveloo, says that measures like this make sense, given the recent changes to the minimum wage, the upcoming changes to the Employment Act 1955, and the government’s plans to introduce tiered foreign workers’ levy.
Companies often violate the provisions of the Employment Act 1955 in areas such as the rest day provision, which requires a minimum of thirty (30) hours rest, and in some cases, in the calculation of overtime. “Adopting a 3-shift pattern for example could be a win-win solution for employers, who wish to reduce overtime costs and mitigate the risk of going against labour laws and social compliance, and local governments,” says Arulkumar. Further, the practice of scheduled overtime (or fixed overtime) in a 12-hour shift pattern may not be acceptable by international labour standards.
He made these points during a series of one-day workshops held by the Malaysia HR Forum on the topic of ‘Prevention and Elimination of Forced Labour’ in Penang, Kamunting, Kuala Lumpur, and Johor Bahru this month. Additionally, he discussed the need for companies to establish ethical recruitment frameworks, and to be fully compliant with at least Malaysian employment laws to prevent and eliminate forced labour practices. The ethical recruitment framework ensures that foreign workers are recruited in a way that respects, protects, and fulfills internationally recognised human rights, including those expressed in international labour standards such as the prevention and elimination of forced labour and deceitful employment practices.
“To eliminate forced labour practices, start with small steps and tackle one issue at a time,” Arulkumar says; adding that practicing empathy and moral consciousness would also see better labour practices. The workshops were designed to help industry participants understand the key issues contributing to forced labour practices, understand effective ways to eradicate and prevent forced labour, and learn best practices from leading companies on observing social compliance in Malaysia.
