A group of journalists who have allegedly not received payment from their workplace for several months have received support from the National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJ) and Gerakan Media Merdeka (GERAMM).
As per their joint statement released today, The Malaysian Insight and The Vibes are said to be represented by the employer.
Additionally, they have requested the employer to pay the alleged unpaid amounts as soon as possible, “as promised,” according to the statement.
In their statement, NUJ and GERAMM stated that “a ‘free press’ is not free’. Meaning there is a cost to be paid, including fair wages, to build a free media landscape.”
NUJ and GERAMM further said that it is against the Employment Act of 1955 for an employer to fail to make required wage and other contribution payments.
According to the two organizations, the decision to withhold payment from the journalists “represents a form of oppression,” and it will be a reflection of the employer’s incompetent administration.
“It is highly unjust for journalists, as media workers, to be treated like beggars, when every cent they demand is the result of hard work that contributes to the company’s operations.
“Undeniably, the involved media workers are facing financial and emotional pressure as
they deal with the responsibility of continuing to provide for themselves and their families,” the statement added.
Additionally, they have urged all sides to stand up for media workers’ rights.
“The sustainability of Malaysia’s media landscape is also influenced by ensuring justice for media workers, and any form of neglect cannot be allowed
“To all media workers, be practitioners of the media to deliver the news, but do not forget our story,” the statement said.
