Daily Lesson from Life 18 February 2009

"Disgruntled sacked worker shoots former boss
Chinese national in his 40s opened fire at close range and then fled. -Wed, Feb 18, 2009 The Star/Asia News Network

KAJANG, MALAYSIA: A disgruntled former employee who was fired from a factory recently shot his ex-employer in Bandar Teknologi Kajang near here Wednesday morning.


The Chinese national, in his 40s, walked into the victim's office around 10.30am, opened fire at close range and then fled.

Yap Soo Yen, 41, from Bandar Sunway, Semenyih died on his way to the hospital from chest wounds.

Employees who witnessed the incident called the police immediately.


Kajang OCPD Asst Comm Shakaruddin Che Mood said police later arrested the suspect at his home nearby.
"We also recovered a home-made pistol at the suspect's residence," he said.

ACP Shakaruddin said that the suspect, who did not possess any travel documents, had been working at the rubber-moulding factory for the past two months. Yap's body has been sent to Bandar Teknologi Kajang Medical Centre for a post-mortem, he said."

A tragic consequence. Home-made pistol! Who would have thought that a normal worker can produce such a weapon! One would have thought that since firearm is restricted in Malaysia (and Singapore), such impulsive and temporary 'lost-of-control' murderous behavior could not have happened!

We do not have much information on the motives and background of shooting but I like to comment on the general issue of 'out-of-control' behaviors.

Lessons for me are:

1. as employer, it is critical that we treat the workers with respect and dignity. Not because of what-might-happened if one does not treat them in such a way but because it is the right things to do!;

2. when an employer feels that he or she is in total control and command of his or her workers, there ought to be a flashing red light and siren swirling and screaming aloud. He may not see it but his people may. He should practice keen observation skill through listening deliberately, asking questions purposefully, and be among the people who are showing frustration, anguish, and anger! So, learn that behavior or cultivate people who will tell you the truth without fear or favour!;

3. people who are suppressed or oppressed will not act violently in the short run. However, over a long and sustained period of being suppressed and oppressed, the opportunity of the 'out-of-control' behaviors happening increases disproportionately! So, calm water does not mean there is no undercurrent! As leaders, are you willing to get your head under the water to see and experience the undercurrent?

My condolences to the deceased family and the suspect should be given a fair trial and let the laws work as it should. If he is charged and proven guilty, he will have to face the consequence!