Kuala lumpur: The proposed Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and the establishment of a Malaysian Ombudsman, anticipated to be presented at the next Parliamentary session, aim to boost transparency, accountability, and access to justice for workers. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said emphasized that the FOI law is set to bolster worker protection by improving access to information related to labor rights and policies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azalina highlighted that the Ombudsman would act as an independent entity for addressing complaints on administrative misconduct, ensuring a stronger voice and protection for workers. The government has initiated measures to benefit workers, such as expanding access to justice through the Legal Aid and Public Defence Act 2026. This includes raising the income eligibility threshold for legal aid to RM50,000 and enhancing the Second Chance Policy through the Fastrack initiative to expedite the removal of bankruptcy status for vulnerable groups.
Azalina also noted that free mediation services are offered for contract disputes involving claims of RM250,000 and below, allowing for quicker and more cost-effective resolutions without court proceedings. This ensures that workers, especially those in lower income brackets, can access legal redress. In light of Workers' Day 2026, themed 'Pekerja MADANI Kesuma Bangsa', she expressed gratitude to all workers who are integral to national development.
She stated that Workers' Day is not just a celebration of worker contributions but a testament to the MADANI Government's dedication to creating a fair and inclusive system where every worker is protected and valued, aligning with Malaysia MADANI aspirations. Simultaneously, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, via a Facebook post, voiced his gratitude to workers across public and private sectors for their role in national advancement.
Linggi thanked the personnel under the Works Ministry and its agencies, especially those involved in national infrastructure projects. He acknowledged the hard work behind every road, bridge, and completed project, urging continued unity, enhanced productivity, and elevation of the nation's workforce dignity.