BINTULU: A total of 31 employers were issued notifications for violating labour laws following a wage operation conducted by the Sarawak Labour Department here on Tuesday (Jan 27).
The operation, involving 67 labour inspectors from across the state, targeted food outlets and restaurants to ensure compliance with labour regulations, particularly on wage-related matters.
Among the key aspects inspected were minimum wage payments, salary deductions, working hours and the provision of paid leave, and other employee benefits.
During the operation, 36 workplaces were inspected, resulting in four investigation papers being opened against employers for offences related to the Minimum Wage Order 2024 and improper salary deductions. In total, 133 violations were recorded for further action.
The department said the operation aligns with its mandate to carry out statutory inspections at any workplace at any time, including premises employing night-shift workers, if there is reason to suspect that employees are being hired there.
It added that similar operations will be expanded to other sectors that have yet to be inspected as part of an early preventive measure to curb labour law breaches and ensure employers adhere to regulations across Sarawak.
The department also issued a stern warning that failure to comply with labour laws may result in court action and penalties.
Under the National Wages Consultative Council Act, employers found guilty may be fined up to RM10,000 for each employee.
Courts may also order employers to pay the difference between the minimum wage rate and the basic salary paid, including other payments accrued based on minimum wage calculations.
For continuing offences, employers may face a daily fine of up to RM1,000 for each day the offence persists after conviction, while repeat offenders risk fines of up to RM20,000 or imprisonment of up to five years.
Additionally, violations of other provisions under the Labour Ordinance (Sarawak Cap. 76) carry a maximum fine of RM50,000.
