KUALA LUMPUR: The abrupt termination of the service of the director-general of the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board is worrying, says a labour union.
It questioned the short notice given to Datuk Ammar Abd Ghapar.
Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board Employees Union president Alwi Shakir Abdullah said the action is damaging to image and morale.
"We view this matter seriously because the time between the issuance and effective date of the termination letter, which is five days, is extremely short and may tarnish the image and perception of any party facing a similar situation.
"A more reasonable period should be provided to ensure harmony is preserved not only within the agency but also among industry stakeholders," he said in a statement.
He said the termination has caused significant concern.
"This is evident in statements issued by various parties, including members of parliament and industry stakeholders, which could ultimately affect the workers in the hospitality and tourism sector, encompassing nearly three million people.
"Questions raised by industry stakeholders deserve clarification."
He also suggested the reinstatement of the Civil Servants Tribunal to provide a platform for self-representation if individuals feel they have been persecuted.
The tribunal was established by the government under the Civil Services Tribunal Act 1977. It mediated in disputes that could not be resolved by the Public Service Department.
The union expressed readiness to meet with Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing to seek clarification about the termination.
Tiong today said Ammar was not sacked but demoted to deputy director-general due to non-performance.