Union launches ‘badge campaign’ against KTMB

The National Union of Peninsular Malaysia Train Drivers (TDU) has launched a “badge campaign” to protest Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB)’s decision to abolish the top positions in the locomotive driver service scheme.

TDU president Badrul Khuzaini Hashim said train drivers are urged to wear badges with the words “KTMB discriminates against train drivers” on their uniforms while on duty.

He said that the protest campaign has been well-received by union members, who comprise train drivers from two different companies, since it began on Nov 24.

“All union members are joining, namely train drivers from two companies.

“Although train drivers from Express Rail Link (ERL) are not involved with KTMB as they are from a different company, as union members, they are showing solidarity.

“One hundred percent of TDU members support it," said Badrul Khuzaini, who is also a KTMB employee.

He added that the union has ordered more than 400 badges for distribution.

“If this issue is not resolved, the union will not hesitate to take more aggressive actions based on the legal provisions allowed for trade unions,” he said when contacted by Malaysiakini on Monday.

Increase in overtime

Badrul Khuzaini explained that the position was abolished in the middle of the year, leaving only four positions.

According to him, this decision has led to train drivers having to work overtime.

“This means there will be an increase in overtime work when there is an insufficient number of staff,” he claimed.

Meanwhile, the newly created Crew Planning System position does not make up for the vacancy left by the abolished position.

“The actual work is only to create schedules. That means the drivers don't have direct supervisors,” he said.

Badrul Khuzaini also said the TDU has sent letters to several involved ministries but has not received any response.

The company's strategic communication officer declined to comment when contacted by Malaysiakini. - Mkini