Forest heights: The Negeri Sembilan Labour Department (JTKNS) has launched an investigation into a company over alleged non-compliance with the Employees' Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446) at a construction site. State Entrepreneurship, Human Resources, Climate Change, Cooperatives, and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman S. Veerapan said the investigation was initiated following a fire involving 30 container units serving as workers' dormitories at Forest Heights here two days ago.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, initial investigations found that the accommodation, provided by a company acting as the main contractor, lacked valid certification under Act 446. An investigation paper has been opened under Section 24D of Act 446, and all workers have been instructed to relocate to a certified Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ).

Veerapan stated that there were about 46 certified CLQs operating in Negeri Sembilan and that employers who did not provide their own CLQ could choose from the available list to house their workers. He emphasized that JTKNS would not compromise on workers' welfare and reminded subcontractors bringing foreign workers to any factory in the state that they must provide proper accommodation and ensure timely wage payments.

Veerapan also remarked that JTKNS would take firm action against any form of non-compliance by employers to ensure the safety, health, and dignity of workers were always protected. He urged employers to house their workers only in certified CLQs and warned against any further violations. The dormitories reportedly housed around 40 workers, and no injuries were reported as the workers had not yet returned from their shifts when the incident occurred.