Just recently, the popular Malaysian dessert chain, Bubblebee was fined RM17,500 by the Magistrate Court in Shah Alam for failing to make SOCSO contributions to their employees.
One of its founders, Shuib Sepahtu, who is also a local comedian and host admitted his mistakes and said he is ready to fix the flaws in his business. When commenting on the repercussions following the news about his SOCSO matters, Shuib said,
“This is the culture of doing business. I’m ready to face the tests I’m bound to experience when doing business,” Shuib expressed as quoted by Harian Metro.
Earlier, Shuib and another founder, Kho Choon Guan pleaded guilty to all charges for failing to pay employer and employee contributions to SOCSO, and the court allowed the pair to pay the arrears in 6 instalments.
“That’s oppression, not a test”
Shuib’s take on the SOCSO matter is currently circulating on social media. On the X platform (formerly known as Twitter), many users are baffled to learn what the comedian had to say about the matter.
While Shuib may take it as a test, Malaysians, on the other hand, saw it as nothing but oppression for the affected employees.
“Shuib, you didn’t contribute to SOCSO. If your employee gets into an accident, he won’t even get 1 cent. That is you oppressing your employees, not a test.”
“I don’t want to say much but as a founder, you’re not taking the rights of the employees seriously. Now, you’re claiming this is nothing but a mere test.”
“Yes, this is indeed a test, but for his employees, not him.”
“SOCSO contribution is crucial. This is considered our insurance when we work. The employer is really bad if they don’t contribute, especially when the workers are not earning much. My brother fell at work and PERKESO has helped a lot.”
“He oppressed others but he’s saying it’s a test? Is he that cruel?”
Shuib’s wife gave her input on the issue
Just this morning (November 13), Shuib’s wife, Watie shared her thoughts on the matter via an Instagram story @iamwatie, and said that despite the tough times, Shuib has always put the employees first.
“He hasn’t taken his salary for years, and always uses his own money to top up the salaries of his employees. It was the previous management who had issues.”
What do you think of Shuib’s take on the matter?
Also read: “The organiser didn’t discuss with me” – M’sian Singer Says Her Cancelled KL Show is an Oppression
