Hari Raya Aidilfitri is just around the corner but Zainudin Salam is not in a festive mood.

On May 24, he was informed that he was being terminated together with 29 other workers in Yak Cheong Metal Industries Sdn Bhd.

“I have been working there since 25 years ago. The owner wants us to stop work all of a sudden; the factory is going to be closed,” the 57-year-old said.

“Last time they gave us bonus. But now perhaps no more.”

Filled with worry about his future, Zainudin said he has made sure of buying new clothes for his wife and children, but he has yet to get a pair for himself.

Zainudin (photo) and his colleagues spoke to Malaysiakini at the Bangi Labour Department office where they lodged a complaint over the termination, which they said did not comply with labour laws and regulations.

The workers said they were given a months' notice of termination instead of two months and are not assured that the firm will pay them due compensation.

According to Section 60J of the Employment Act 1955, a company which is going to close down is required to inform its employees two months in advance.

Served for 27 years

Most of the workers who are now facing unemployment have served the factory for decades, such as Bala Krishnan who had worked at Yak Cheong for 27 years.

He said the owner promised monthly compensation, but the workers are hoping for for more based on their years of service.

"We want to start our own businesses," Bala said.

The workers also held placards urging Yak Cheong not to trample on workers' rights.

Also present was PSM central committee member S Arutchelvan who urged banks to suspend loan payments pending from these workers until they are employed again.

“Most of them are paying their debts, either house loan or car loan. When their salary stops, the banks push them to pay.

"A lot of them will be given increment of interest if they don’t pay after the pending loan after three months.”

Malaysiakini's calls to the office Yak Cheong went unanswered. The portal has e-mailed the factory for a response.