KUCHING: Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak welcomes the relevant amended parts of the Industrial Relations Act as announced by Minister of Human Resources Datuk Seri Saravanan.
These amendments to the Act will be implemented with effect from Jan 1, next year.
Its secretary, Andrew Lo said MTUC Sarawak believed the amendments would lead to a more proactive industrial relationship apart from improving worker’s rights and encouraging more professional human resources management by employers.
“In return, it will increase labour productivity and make our businesses more competitive both locally and internationally.
“Although MTUC Sarawak is disappointed that not all MTUC’s proposals are reflected in the amendments, it is nevertheless optimistic that the amendments will be far more positive for workers and the labour movement, the economy and the country as well.
Businesses thrive by empowering workers, not exploiting them.
“Thus, we urge the ministry to forge ahead with the complimentary amendments to the Trade Unions Act and Employment Act/ Sarawak Labour Ordinance to bring our Labour standards to international standards,” he said in a statement.
Moreover, Lo also stressed that the amendments is crucial, especially in an era of global trade as exemplified by the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade agreements.
“As we move into the digital economy, antiquated regressive policies must be thrown out and we must adopt international best practices,” he concluded.
