Hajiji: Good labour laws key to Sabah's economic growth

The Star

13-05-2025

KOTA KINABALU: Labour laws should be seen as a tool to create a fair and productive work environment, not as a burden, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor ( pic ).
"When workers are protected and valued, productivity improves and the economy flourishes. That is the philosophy we aim to instil through the Sabah Labour Advisory Council (SLAC).
"The labour laws are not a burden on employers, they are a mechanism for sustaining harmony in the workplace," he said, adding that the newly launched SLAC is set to protect workers' rights and foster stronger collaboration between the state government, employers, and employees.
He stated this in his speech, delivered by State Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Ariffin Arif, at the council's appointment ceremony and inaugural meeting at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort on Tuesday (May 13).
SLAC, he explained, will serve as a platform for employers and employees to exchange views and propose improvements on labour-related matters, allowing Sabah to craft policies more suited to its unique industrial landscape.
Comprising 48 permanent members, with 16 each representing the government, employers' associations, and workers' unions, the council's structure mirrors the International Labour Organisation's (ILO) Tripartite Consultation Convention (No. 144) of 1976.
"All decisions made by SLAC will be submitted to both the state and federal governments for further action," he added.
Hajiji said SLAC would also strengthen cooperation between the state and federal governments, particularly through the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation and the Ministry of Human Resources.
He also welcomed the Federal Government's move to raise the national minimum wage from RM1,500 to RM1,700 under the Minimum Wage Order 2024, saying every worker deserves to be paid in accordance with their contributions.
Citing the Prime Minister's Labour Day announcement, he described it as a turning point for labour administration in Sabah, especially with plans to address forced labour, workplace discrimination, sexual harassment, housing, protection for women and children, and improved working conditions.
A stable and well-regulated labour system, he said, is essential for drawing investments and strengthening Sabah's economic foundation.
To support the Sabah Labour Ordinance (Amendment) 2025, the state government will continue engaging all stakeholders.
"I urge all employers and industry players to support this initiative and fulfil their responsibilities with a strong sense of patriotism," he said.
Hajiji also praised the Sabah Labour Department for helping resolve over RM22.2mil worth of claims involving 13,487 workers last year through inspections and labour court action.
He stressed the importance of worker safety, social protection through EPF, Socso, and the Employment Insurance System, and the need to uphold freedom of expression and trade union participation.
"The Decent Work Agenda must not remain a slogan – it must be embedded in our policies, practices, and actions. In Sabah, we strive to balance economic progress with the well-being of our people," he said.