Wan Junaidi: Labour Day a call to build fair, inclusive workplaces in Sarawak
KUCHING (April 30): This Labour Day celebration provides an opportunity to re-evaluate employment policies and practices, said Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
He said this is in line with the Sarawak government's commitment towards strengthening social protection; expanding skills training opportunities; and providing fair and inclusive employment for all levels of society.
He said the government is also striving to ensure local workers are competitive, innovative, and ready to explore new fields that will be the core of the state's future competitiveness and prosperity.
'In Sarawak, we are proud of the diversity of employment sectors, including oil and gas, agriculture, tourism, and the digital economy. Every worker, whether in the city or in the rural areas, plays an important role in realising the state's development agenda.
'They are the backbone that ensures the continuity of progress for the well-being of the people,' he said in his Labour Day 2025 message.
Wan Junaidi also said he and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi are appreciative of employers and trade unions who continue to work together to safeguard the welfare of workers.
He said harmonious relations between employers and workers are the foundation of sustainable productivity and shared well-being.
'Therefore, it is our responsibility to ensure a conducive, respectful and fair working environment at all levels of the organisation—from top management to the front lines.'
Wan Junaidi also said Labour Day, celebrated on May 1 every year, is not just a public holiday, but a symbol of appreciation for the struggle of workers in demanding fair rights and better working conditions.
He pointed out that a developed and prosperous country is based on the strength and dedication of its workers.
'Behind every success, there is the tireless contribution of the workforce, whether in the public or private sector, in urban or rural areas. Therefore, I call on all parties—government, employers, workers and society—to continue to work together in creating a safe, healthy, fair, and prosperous work environment.
'There is no room for any form of oppression or injustice because only with a harmonious work environment can productivity and shared well-being be enhanced for the progress of the state and the nation,' he said.
As such, with the spirit of unity and mutual respect, Wan Junaidi said he and his wife hope this Labour Day celebration can strengthen the commitment of all Sarawakians in making Sarawak a fair, safe and prosperous workplace for all.
'Let us together realise Sarawak's vision of a developed and prosperous state by 2030,' he said. Labour Day wan junaidi tuanku jaafar
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