Both the RUM president, Abdul Razak Md Hasan, and deputy president, R Subramanian, are among those dismissed, apparently for taking part in a picket on 9 May over safety concerns arising from the use of old locomotives.
The ITF understands that another 88 KTMB members have been issued with show cause notices (which require them to make a court appearance to explain why legal action should not be taken against them).
In his letter of 13 October to Dato’ Sri Mohammed Najib, Steve Cotton expressed ITF rail affiliates’ full support and solidarity for the RUM, and their backing to the picket organised by the Malaysian Trade Union Congress outside the KTMB head office in Kuala Lumpur on 3 October.
He reminded the prime minister that actions such as the dismissals in response to legitimate protest action seriously violated fundamental workers’ rights, as enshrined in ILO Conventions. Steve Cotton wrote: “Railway safety – keeping the railways as a safe workplace for railway workers and also safe for passengers and the public in general – is of paramount importance.
As I am sure you are aware, the provision and proper maintenance of appropriate rolling stock and infrastructure is a significant aspect of railway safety oversight. “I therefore strongly urge you to instigate a government intervention to ensure that meaningful social dialogue is established and negotiations can be opened to resolve the issues being raised by the union, in the interests of all parties concerned and out of concern for public safety.”
