KUCHING: The Occupational, Safety and Health Department (DOSH) is in the midst of investigating the explosion incident at CityOne Megamall that claimed three lives and injured 26 others.
Human Resources Minister M Kulasegaran confirmed that investigation had already started.
“DOSH is investigating, and I will only speak on the matter after I have received full reports from DOSH Sarawak,” he told reporters after paying a courtesy call on Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg at the latter’s office here yesterday.
DOSH Sarawak director Dr Nor Halim, who was also present, said till now they had interviewed about eight people including a few experts.
He said DOSH’s investigation is to see if there is any negligence committed under the Occupational, Safety and Health Act (OSHA).
“It will take some time to complete the investigation because many of the injured witnesses are still in the state of trauma.
“It will take time for the victims to recover and give us their statement,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kualasegaran said the federal government is considering to impose minimum wage based on regions and business sectors.
As an example, he said there might be different minimum wage for the plantation, manufacturing and other sectors and in different regions.
“Our problem then was, prior to this, the minimum wage was standardised to make it easy for enforcement.
“And also they felt that the difference in wages from one city to another was not so great. But we will consider these factors,” he said.
“Having said this, employers must not just look at the minimum.They can always provide higher and better facilities and amenities.
“This is the minimal protection we are looking at, for employees in this country,” he added.