NUBE slams bank for harassment denial

SHAH ALAM - The National Union of Bank Employees (NUBE) has rejected a recent statement by Maybank and the Malayan Commercial Banks' Association (MCBA) that denied allegations of harassment and mistreatment.

NUBE Secretary-General J. Solomon slammed Maybank's claim that "there have been no unfair actions as alleged by NUBE" as a blatant misrepresentation.

The union has stressed that the bank's pattern of workplace misconduct was widespread and systemic, citing the ongoing case at the Bercham branch in Ipoh as a clear example.

“Maybank and MCBA have falsely claimed that the sexual harassment case is before the courts, using this as an excuse to avoid commenting.

"In reality, the case has not yet exhausted internal remedies or reached the reconciliation stage at the Industrial Relations Department (IRD), exposing their dishonesty.

"This behaviour is disgraceful for institutions responsible for public funds, which should uphold integrity,” the statement read.

NUBE further clarified that a dispute can only be taken to court after all internal processes are completed and, if necessary, referred by the Minister (Minister of Human Resource).

They added that bypassing this procedure, such as through an expedited transfer to the Industrial Court, would constitute an abuse of power.

Solomon also stated that Maybank's comments, as reported in the media, represented another attempt to mislead employees, shareholders, and the public.

NUBE's statement detailed Maybank's alleged misleading claims and manipulation tactics, providing details about the case involving a senior Maybank employee.

On October 6, 2021, a female employee at Maybank's Bercham branch formally complained about her superior, for allegedly sending sexually explicit and inappropriate messages via WhatsApp.

Despite the victim’s repeated efforts to seek protection, NUBE claimed Maybank’s management failed to discipline the superior, allowing him to continue in his role and further torment the victim.

NUBE also addressed another issue regarding the retaliatory suspension of the victim.

In August 2024, nearly three years after the initial harassment complaint, Maybank allegedly conducted a redundant investigation that further traumatised the victim.

When she refused to participate and sought resolution through the national dispute settlement process, the bank reportedly retaliated by suspending her.

Solomon highlighted that this action not only punished the victim but also served as a warning to others who might speak out against injustices within Maybank.

NUBE further stressed that Maybank’s alleged handling of the Bercham incident breached Permodalan Nasional Berhad's (PNB) Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) guidelines, which focus on human rights, fair labour practices, and a safe work environment.

By failing to protect the victim and silencing her, NUBE argued that Maybank contradicted its own Group Dignity Policy and undermines PNB’s principles as a responsible investor.

Solomon emphasised that while NUBE has consistently operated within the legal framework to protect its members’ rights, Maybank's actions suggested they are using ongoing legal processes to delay and deny justice to the victim.

He added that this tactic of misdirection aims to exhaust the victim and any supporting parties into submission.

Therefore, NUBE urged all stakeholders, including PNB and the government, to hold Maybank accountable for its actions.

The union called for an independent investigation into the integrity of bank top management, as their actions are undermining the credibility of financial institutions.

NUBE also called on its members and the wider public to stand in solidarity with the victim and continue demanding justice.