Reforming Sabah's labour laws crucial to protect workers' rights

The Star

19-05-2025

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah's efforts to reform its outdated labour laws mark a crucial step towards ensuring that development does not come at the cost of workers' rights, says a government official.
'Sabah still lags behind in several areas, according to the Department of Statistics. But catching up should not mean cutting corners, especially when it comes to protecting workers,' said Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry permanent secretary Datuk Mohd Hanafiah Mohd Kassim.
He said the recent amendments to labour laws, covering both the private and public sectors, reflect the government's commitment to fair and inclusive progress.
'These changes did not happen overnight. Even before they were tabled in Parliament, we engaged stakeholders to identify gaps and challenges. The fact that the law had not been updated for so long speaks volumes about the lack of regulation in this sector,' Hanafiah told reporters on Monday (May 19).
Speaking at the launch of the Labour Legislation Transformation Programme 2025, here, he said the amendments are intended not only to meet international standards, but also to address exploitation, underpayment, and poor working conditions.
'The key point is that these amendments reflect our commitment to meeting international labour standards and protecting workers' rights. The scope is extensive, involving multiple departments and agencies, including the National Wages Consultative Council (MPGN) and Cuepacs (Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services). So, this does not just apply to the private sector, it also involves civil servants.
'Ideally, industries should uphold these rights on their own. But since that has not always been the case, the government is stepping in with proactive measures,' he added.
Hanafiah stressed that the approach was collaborative rather than punitive.
'We have launched a mobile team that is currently travelling across Sabah to conduct workshops and outreach. Today's session is just the beginning, we want to ensure all stakeholders understand the law and their rights,' he said.
As Sabah works to strengthen its economy and catch up with more developed regions, he stressed that inclusive and ethical progress must remain a priority.
'There are no shortcuts to development. Labour reforms must go hand in hand with economic initiatives. We cannot afford to delay this any longer,' he said.
Addressing concerns about the impact of digitalisation on employment, Hanafiah noted that industries are evolving rather than eliminating jobs.
Describing the transition as a global trend, he noted that it is projected that by 2030, around 69mil current jobs will evolve into 189 million new jobs globally, driven by science, technology and innovation.
He explained that roles are shifting rather than disappearing.
'Factory mechanics, for example, may now oversee digital dashboards instead of machinery. It is more of a transition than a termination,' he said.
Hanafiah also acknowledged concerns over salaries amid job transitions, but urged a broader perspective.
'In the past, TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) graduates were often overlooked. Before, welders might have earned RM60 to RM70 a day, but now, many are earning salaries comparable to, and maybe exceeding, those Jusa-level officers in high-skill sectors,' he explained.
He said as responsibilities and risks increase, especially in industries such as aviation, wages and insurance coverage are also expected to rise.
'What matters is that digitalisation must go hand in hand with security and workers' rights. As we digitise, we must ensure these protections evolve too. Monitoring this transition is crucial to ensure no one is left behind. If there are gaps, they must be flagged so the government can respond,' he said.
While it is still early to gauge the full impact, Hanafiah said his discussions with industry players have revealed no plans for mass layoffs.
'We want to move forward, but not at the expense of workers. Growth must come with justice,' he said.
Also present was Trade Unions Affairs Department director-general Mohd Asri Abdul Wahab.