Sarawak: The newly amended Labour Ordinance of Sarawak, which takes effect today, has been hailed as the best gift for workers in the state, aligning with the Labour Day celebrations. Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak chapter chairman Zaidi Nasar emphasized that the enforcement of these amendments marks a significant achievement following a 20-year wait.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the amendments signify a milestone in the joint efforts of leadership and trade unions advocating for workers’ rights in Sarawak. Zaidi Nasar stated that these changes would enable Sarawak’s workforce to enjoy benefits similar to their counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia. The Labour Ordinance of Sarawak (Amendment) Bill 2024 was passed in the Dewan Rakyat on December 12 last year.

Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong highlighted that the amendments would ensure the protection of the rights of 1.46 million workers in Sarawak. These changes are considered historic, as the ordinance has remained unchanged since its last amendment in 2005. The major amendments include increased maternity leave from 60 to 98 days, provisions for overtime payments, seven days of paternity leave, enhanced protection for contract workers, and improved health and safety rights.