Kuala Langat MP Abdullah Sani Abdul Hamid, will bring up the issues afflicting steelmaker Megasteel Sdn Bhd and their employees with Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

The PKR rep was present at today’s discussion – held between representatives of Megasteel, Jabatan Tenaga Kerja, Metal Industry Employees’ Union and the workers' committee.

“Since these are serious issues, I will speak to the prime minister about this,” said Abdullah Sani.

The meeting took place after a second picket by laid-off employees in front of Megasteel’s office in Banting.

“We (Megasteel) would really appreciate it if the YB can bring this matter up with the prime minister and in Parliament, and help influence a decision in favour of the company,” said Vasu Palanisamy, the senior manager group industrial relations and employee relations (Irer) of Megasteel.

Vasu added that the workers’ committee representatives also enquired about when the company can come back with a response to their issues.

“Unfortunately, I was unable to give a definite date.

“The company management is discussing this matter and we will get back to the representatives as soon as possible,” Vasu added.

According to The Star report on Nov 25, Megasteel had petitioned the government to curb the rampant imports of hot rolled coil (HRC) at dumping prices.

Megasteel said in a statement that it had the right to seek trade remedy measures against HRC imports which were “causing serious injury to the local HRC industry in Malaysia.”

“The petition seeks to provide an equitable and level playing field for the local producers of HRC in the country,” the company added.

Laid-off employees hopeful

Meanwhile, workers’ committee secretary Elangovan Manaisamy said the affected employees did not want to be laid off and preferred compensation, so they would be able to seek employment with other companies.

“By being laid off, we are only being paid 50 percent of our salary monthly. And the company had also said we can’t work at other places during the layoff,” Elangovan claimed.

Elangovan added that the affected employees will hold another picket if Megasteel does not responded to their issues before April 30.

With regards to Kuala Langat parliamentarian Abdullah Sani offering to help both parties involved, Elangovan is grateful the MP has pledged to look into the issue.

“We are also hoping to amicably resolve this issue. Let this be a win-win situation for both Megasteel and the affected employees,” he added.

Today’s picket, organised a week after the first one, was attended by an estimated 280 people.