KUCHING: The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak on Thursday hoped the harmonisation of the Sarawak Labour Ordinance and the Employment Act can be expedited for the benefit of private sector workers in the state.
Saying this is long overdue, its secretary, Chung Fui San, expressed gratitude for the attention being given to the matter by the Minister of Human Resources.
Minister Steven Sim had earlier said discussions on aligning the Sarawak Labour Ordinance with the Employment Act were now in the final stages.
He was confident a consensus can be reached to implement amendments to the Ordinance soon to ensure workers rights are aligned throughout the country.
In a statement Chung said a meeting with Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala and the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg last year has proven to be fruitful, and that MTUC is pleased with the progress made.
“However, the delay in implementation should not continue, as it jeopardises the welfare of workers in Sarawak and hinders employers from achieving productivity,” he added.
Chung said MTUC wished to see the harmonisation of the Sarawak Labour Ordinance implemented swiftly, as discussed with Gerawat last year.
“This step is crucial in developing a competitive workforce in Sarawak and fostering growth and prosperity in the region,” he said.
MTUC Sarawak is confident the enforcement of this harmonisation will not only benefit workers but also contribute to overall productivity and the economy of Sarawak.
“We are eager to see the positive impact of these changes on the workforce and the region as a whole,” he said.
