Know your rights under new minimum wage, labour reforms, MTUC tells workers

Borneo Post

2 days ago

Zaidi says that the order is based on the National Wages Consultative Council Act 2011 (Act 732), which guarantees workers' right to fair wages that reflect current living costs.
SARIKEI (Aug 2): The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak Division has urged all workers and employers nationwide to immediately familiarise themselves with their rights and responsibilities in light of two major developments in the national labour landscape.
Sarawak MTUC chairman Zaidi Nasar said the two key changes are the implementation of a RM1,700 minimum monthly wage and the enforcement of the amended Sarawak Labour Ordinance, which came into effect on May 1, 2025.
'Effective Aug 1, 2025, every employee is entitled to receive a minimum wage of RM1,700 per month under the fully implemented 2024 Minimum Wage Order,' he said in a statement yesterday.
Zaidi explained that the order is based on the National Wages Consultative Council Act 2011 (Act 732), which guarantees workers' right to fair wages that reflect current living costs.
'Employers who violate workers' rights are not only breaking the law but also putting their business reputation and sustainability at significant risk,' he warned, adding that the law outlines fair penalties to ensure justice for workers.
Zaidi urged workers to review their payslips and assert their right to the newly mandated wages.
He also highlighted the importance of the amended Sarawak Labour Ordinance, which now provides comprehensive protection comparable to those under the Employment Act 1955 in Peninsular Malaysia.
'The amended ordinance covers all employees, regardless of salary. It provides for 98 days of maternity leave, seven days of paternity leave, a reduced 45-hour workweek, flexible work arrangements, safe accommodations, and safeguards against workplace discrimination,' he said.
He emphasised that workers in Sarawak now enjoy enhanced protection and should be fully aware of their rights.
Zaidi also urged employees to take action if their rights are being neglected, advising them to report to MTUC Sarawak, the Sarawak Labour Department, or their respective workplace union representatives.
'MTUC Sarawak believes that the implementation of the RM1,700 minimum wage and the reformed Sarawak Labour Ordinance will bring a comprehensive impact on Malaysia's economy and society,' he said.
Among the expected benefits are improved productivity and higher motivation towards wage fairness and work-life balance, all of which align with international labour standards.
'Empowering workers is the core of national economic development. It means recognising their strategic role across all sectors and creating a more inclusive, ethical, and rights-based work environment,' Zaidi added.
He also noted that these efforts are likely to enhance domestic and foreign investor confidence, as they project Malaysia's commitment to progressive labour policies and worker protection.