Former employees file complains over MASTV

The Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) has received complaints from four former employees of the now-bankrupt MASTV satellite television channel.

The channel declared bankruptcy on July 24.

In response to an inquiry from Rádio Macau, DSAL stated that it is “attentive to the interests and labor rights” of the former MASTV employees.

As of July 25, DSAL was monitoring four labor dispute cases involving ex-employees of the Macau satellite TV station.

The labor dispute cases filed with DSAL relate to complaints about unpaid wages and benefits owed to the former MASTV workers.

According to the report, DSAL also noted that Macau residents who lost their jobs due to the MASTV bankruptcy have several options to re-enter the labor market.

These include professional matching sessions for different sectors, as well as utilizing the Macao One Account system to seek new employment opportunities.

The closure of MASTV has left a number of local workers without jobs.

Established June 2001, the television station also broadcasts in Hong Kong, mainland China, and Taiwan. Labor disputes arose in Taipei in 2018 where about 30 employees were not paid as promised, leading to similar conflicts in Macau the following year.

Despite facing financial challenges, the station received a 15-year license extension from then-Chief Executive Chui Sai On. At its peak, MAST had up to 150 employees.

The broadcaster heavily relied on government funding to sustain its programs, primarily focused on promoting Macau, receiving an annual grant of MOP8 million in 2019 and 2020. Staff reporter