Latest news with #MTUCSarawak
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
MTUC S'wak calls for swift resolution to union leadership stalemate
MTUC Sarawak has urged the Joint Special Committee (JBK) overseeing MTUC operations to prioritise resolving the leadership impasse and refrain making statements that may confuse workers and stakeholders. KUCHING (June 5): The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak has urged the Joint Special Committee (JBK) overseeing MTUC operations to prioritise resolving the leadership impasse and refrain making statements that may confuse workers and stakeholders. In a statement, MTUC Sarawak stressed that the committee ― established under a court order has been given a specific mandate to conduct the MTUC Special Delegates Conference within three months. 'Unfortunately, the election that was initially scheduled for May has been postponed to August,' it said. MTUC Sarawak lamented that the delay resulted in MTUC missing the opportunity to send a representative to the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland ― a global tripartite platform that brings together governments, employers and workers. 'This is the first time in history that MTUC gas failed to send an official workers' representative due to a leadership crisis, which has left the union without formal representation,' it added. The congress urged all parties within MTUC to focus solely on holding the long-overdue election. 'MTUC must returned to being a credible and respected organisation that champions workers' rights. Priority must be given to transparency, fairness, and an immediate resolution to ensure that MTUC can once again operate effectively,' read the statement. Despite the absence of a workers' representative at the ILC, MTUC Sarawak noted that Malaysia remains committed to protecting workers' rights through ongoing legislative and policy reforms. These include amendments to the Sarawak Labour and Sabah Labour Ordinances ― extending protections to all workers regardless of income level or job type ― as well as a 13 per cent increase in the minimum wage and the extension of social security coverage to foreign workers. 'It is therefore crucial that the MTUC's leadership resolve its internal issues promptly so that the voice of Malaysian workers can regain its rightful place on the international stage,' it said. The congress also reiterated that the upcoming election must be conducted fairly, transparently, and within the court-mandated timeframe. 'A strong and united labour movement not only benefits local workers but also enhances Malaysia's competitiveness in the global labour market,' it added. The post MTUC S'wak calls for swift resolution to union leadership stalemate appeared first on Borneo Post Online.
Borneo Post
22-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Know your rights under amended labour law, MTUC Sarawak tells workers
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
