Plan retrenchment exercise with care

ACCORDING to the Human Resources Minister, in a written reply in Parliament recently, last year recorded the highest number of workers being retrenched over the past five years. Statistics provided by the ministry show that 38,499 workers were retrenched in 2015, an increase of 12,582 from the 25,917 total in 2014. The number is not as high as those recorded in 2007 (42,336), 2008 (47,145) and 2009 (64,516) but it is expected to rise this year as more retrenchment exercises could be undertaken due to the current economic uncertainty both globally and at home.

It will be tougher to find another job now because of the prevailing economic situation. Thus, it is crucial for employers to plan a smooth retrenchment exercise to protect the interest and welfare of their employees. They have to hold consultations with their trade unions to discuss a redundancy plan that can be exercised without any suspicion or doubt that might lead to a dispute between the employer and employees.