Know your rights under amended labour law, MTUC Sarawak tells workers

Borneo Post

22-05-2025

Zaidi says that the changes are a clear indication of Sarawak's recognition of the vital role workers play in driving economic growth.
KUCHING (May 23): The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak has called on all workers in the state to proactively understand and assert their rights under the newly amended Sarawak Labour Ordinance, which came into effect on May 1.
MTUC Sarawak chairman Zaidi Nasar stated that the changes are a clear indication of Sarawak's recognition of the vital role workers play in driving economic growth.
'As a state that continues to rapidly develop since achieving independence, Sarawak has a responsibility to ensure social justice and workers' well-being are safeguarded.
'Empowering the workforce is a key factor in building a sustainable economy, and compliance with the Sarawak Labour Ordinance is the foundation for a fairer and safer work environment,' he said in a statement.
Among the key updates in the ordinance are the expansion of protection to all workers regardless of wage level or sector, the extension of maternity leave from 60 to 98 days, and the introduction of a seven-day paternity leave provision. Working hours have also been reduced from 48 to 45 hours per week to improve work-life balance.
Additionally, sick leave and hospitalisation leave have now been separated, with 14 days of sick leave and 60 days of hospitalisation leave, totalling 74 days – an increase from the previous 60-day combined provision.
Other progressive measures include stronger provisions against discrimination, forced labour and sexual harassment as well as improved regulations for flexible work arrangements and workers' rights to safe accommodation.
The ordinance also mandates six compulsory public holidays, including National Day, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's Birthday, the Birthday of the Rulers or Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Labour Day, Malaysia Day, and one other state-designated public holiday.
In view of this, Zaidi stressed the importance of close cooperation among workers, employers and authorities to ensure the smooth implementation of the ordinance and that Sarawak's workforce fully benefits from the change.
As such, he said several positive steps can be taken such as increasing awareness through briefings and workshops; advocating for workers facing injustice; fostering open dialogue between employees and employers; ensuring robust enforcement and monitoring; and engaging the wider community and unions to uphold labour rights.
'MTUC is committed to ensuring that every worker in Sarawak receives proper protection and enjoys a fair and safe working environment.
'The future of Sarawak depends on a healthy and secure workforce, and compliance with the Labour Ordinance is the foundation for shared success.' labour law lead MTUC workers' rights Zaidi Nasar