Sexual harassment in the course of employment is considered serious misconduct and can be a valid reason for dismissal. In this case, Petronas is committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure a safe working environment.
The Kuala Lumpur Industrial Court is giving props to the company for taking strong action against sexual harassment by firing a senior officer who was guilty of harassing 4 female employees.
The employees included 3 foreign nationals and 1 local
According to the New Straits Times, the senior officer, who was assigned to work in Dubai between 2015 and 2018, was hit with complaints from 4 female employees.
Petronas responded quickly and took immediate action after the complainants reported inappropriate remarks and unwanted physical contact by the senior officer.
Court chairman Eswary Maree said it is the company’s duty to prevent such behaviour, especially from a senior officer with legal qualifications.
She also mentioned that having a safe and secure workplace is just as essential as the right to life.
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“Firing an employee is acceptable in cases of serious misconduct”
Even though the accused argued that his actions were misunderstood and denied any physical contact, Eswary found that he broke Petronas’ code of conduct and workplace rules.
She noted that the domestic inquiry was fair and followed natural justice, making the dismissal reasonable. In her 64-page decision, she stated that firing someone is acceptable in cases of serious misconduct.
In short, she concluded that the company made the right call to fire the employee based on the situation.
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