‘No need specific laws for workplace discrimination against disabled’

Specific laws are not needed to address issues of workplace discrimination against persons with disabilities, said Human Resources Minister V Sivakumar.

At a press conference today, the minister said while some countries have such laws, Malaysia had very few cases involving workplace discrimination in comparison.

“Australia, Canada, and India have laws to address discrimination of persons facing physical and mental disabilities.

“But this is dependent on each country where they could have many cases of discrimination related to these two aspects, and therefore need a specific law to handle the issue.

“But seeing as our country only has eight (reported) cases and all have been handled well, there is no need for a specific law as of now to handle the issue,” he said.

Earlier, Sivakumar (above) told the Dewan Rakyat that as of Sept 30 this year, the Labour Department has received a total of eight reports of workplace discrimination.

The eight reports, however, did not involve discrimination faced by employees with disabilities, he said.

He also did not specify whether the reports were from the public or private sector.

“The existing legal provisions are sufficient to overcome issues regarding the monitoring and enforcement of conditions.

“(This is) so that all employees and employers are aware of their respective rights and responsibilities in ensuring a discrimination-free work environment,” he said.