Minister's visit a historic milestone for Sabah workers' union

Borneo Post

04-06-2025

Sim (centre) during his visit at the Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Workers' Union of Sabah office recently.
KOTA KINABALU (June 4): The Hotel, Resort and Restaurant Workers' Union of Sabah has described the recent official visit by Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong as a historic moment and a significant gesture of recognition for workers in the state.
Its Secretary-General, Mohd Shahbudin Abdullah, said it was the first time a federal minister had ever visited their union office to engage directly with workers, calling the visit a landmark occasion since the union's formation.
'This visit marks a meaningful chapter for us. Never before has any minister come down to meet and listen to the voices of workers here in Sabah. It's truly an honour,' he said in a statement.
Shahbudin added that the Prime Minister's title of 'Panglima Pekerja' (Champion of Workers) given to Sim was well-deserved, citing the minister's unwavering dedication towards improving the welfare of workers across the country.
One of the key highlights praised by the union is the enforcement of the amended Sabah Labour Ordinance 2025, which was officially gazetted on May 1.
According to Shahbudin, the amendment had been long-awaited since 2022, and its realisation is seen as a breakthrough for labour rights in the state.
'For years, we have hoped for parity with our counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia. After the first reading in July 2024, followed by the second and third readings, the amendment was passed in Parliament last December. We are thankful to the minister and the ministry for their tireless efforts in making it a reality,' he said.
The union also extended appreciation to the Sabah Labour Department for its role in facilitating the legislative reform.
In addition, Shahbudin welcomed the introduction of the Madani Workers' Card, which offers discounts of up to 30 per cent on various essentials, a move aimed at easing the cost of living. However, he urged the ministry to expand the range of participating vendors in Sabah to ensure the benefit is felt more widely by local workers.
Touching on the issue of minimum wage, Shahbudin expressed concern over the growing frustration among long-serving employees who continue to receive salaries close to or equal to new entrants.
'The introduction of minimum wage is a good step, but the lack of salary differentiation between experienced and new workers has been demoralising for many. This has been happening for years without a concrete solution. We hope the minister will give this matter due attention,' he added.
The union also conveyed its gratitude for being appointed as part of the Sabah Labour Advisory Council (SLAC), calling it a major honour and a platform to further contribute to policymaking that benefits workers.
'We believe in the leadership of the minister and are confident that his commitment will continue to bring positive change for workers, ensuring not only their wellbeing but also a more harmonious and conducive work environment,' he said.