Ministry to amend process of recognising workers' unions

 

The Human Resources Ministry will make several amendments to the process of recognising workers’ unions to give workers an avenue to fight for their rights and to seek justice.

Human Resources Minister V Sivakumar said the government will give the matter due attention since there are employers who refuse to recognise unions in their companies.

“I was informed that there are cases whereby employers refuse to recognise workers’ unions and that makes it difficult for employees to fight for their rights,” he said in his speech at the Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) festival on the eve of Labour Day last night.

At the same time, the government is also studying several other issues, including pensions for the private sector, employment guarantees, workers’ health scheme and workers’ insurance plus issues related to the welfare of foreign workers.

According to Sivakumar, the government will try to overcome these issues to ensure all workers are protected and given the privileges equivalent to their contributions to their employers and the country.

Foreign workers not forgotten

“The issue of foreign workers’ welfare also needs to be given due attention and action. We must ensure that foreign workers are protected by the laws and given their rights, just like local employees,” he said.

The minister added that the government will cooperate with employers to ensure workers with limited qualifications are also given opportunities to enhance their careers or education through training and courses.

Such initiatives can give workers the opportunity to improve their skills and seek better prospects in their careers as well as fill higher positions and receive better remunerations.

Sivakumar also urged all employers to respect and recognise the rights of workers and ensure workers are provided with a conducive and safe environment to work.

“The government will continue to introduce policies and laws to ensure the welfare, safety and rights of workers are protected,” he said.

- Bernama