Malaysia Labour Day Public Holiday: Date, History, Theme 2025, and Wishes

Every 1st of May, Malaysia joins many other countries in celebrating Labour Day.

While most people look forward to the day off, the meaning behind it runs much deeper, especially for those managing teams and businesses.

In this article, we will explore Labour Day in Malaysia, including its holiday status, history, the theme for 2025, how to celebrate within the company, and some wishes and templates that you can use.

Is Labour Day a Public Holiday in Malaysia?

Yes, Labour Day is a national public holiday in Malaysia.

It’s observed on 1 May every year, and it applies across all states from Peninsular Malaysia to Sabah and Sarawak.

This means both government and private sector employees are entitled to a day off.

For businesses that operate 24/7, such as those in retail or logistics, Labour Day planning may require extra coordination.

In these cases, employers should clearly communicate work schedules and offer compensation based on public holiday pay rules.

History of Labour Day in Malaysia

Labour Day, or Hari Pekerja, is celebrated every 1st of May in Malaysia and many other countries.

It’s a day to appreciate workers and the role they play in growing the economy. But have you ever wondered how it started in Malaysia?

Back in 1921, a group in Ipoh, Perak held one of the first Labour Day events in Malaya.

At that time, workers faced tough conditions—long hours, low pay, and unsafe workplaces. These early efforts were the start of the workers' rights movement here.

It wasn’t until 1972 that Labour Day became an official holiday.

The late Deputy Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Ismail Abdul Rahman, made the announcement at a union event in KL.

The first national celebration happened in 1973—and it’s been marked every year since with events like parades and gatherings.

For employers, Labour Day is a reminder of how far we've come.

Many of the rights workers have today—like reasonable working hours and safer conditions—are the result of past struggles.

Understanding this history helps us build better, fairer workplaces today.

How Labour Day Started in Malaysia

Labour Day in Malaysia has come a long way.

Back in the early 1900s, many workers, especially from South India and China, worked in tough conditions on rubber estates and tin mines.

Trade unions were not allowed, and workers didn’t have much say.

Things began to change in the 1930s when workers started forming unions, even though the colonial government tried to stop them.

The Malayan Trades Union Congress (MTUC) was set up in 1949 and became a strong voice for workers.

One big moment was in 1955, when MTUC led a major rally in Kuala Lumpur asking for fair pay and better working conditions—this was Malaysia’s first major Labour Day event.

After Malaysia gained independence, the government began to protect workers’ rights.

The Employment Act 1955 was introduced, setting rules for wages, working hours, and leave. Labour Day officially became a public holiday in 1972.

Today, Labour Day is more than a day off. It’s a time to recognise workers’ contributions.

For employers, it’s also a good reminder to stay up to date with labour laws—like the recent change in 2023 that reduced the maximum working hours from 48 to 45 per week.

Themes of Labour Day in Malaysia (Yearly)

Each year, Malaysia announces a special theme to highlight national values and goals around employment.

For 2025, the official theme is: “Pekerja Kesuma Bangsa.” This translates to "Workers Are the Noble Soul of the Nation.”

The theme was introduced alongside the rebranding of the Ministry of Human Resources, now known as KESUMA.

It reflects the belief that every employee, no matter their role, contributes to the strength and dignity of the country.

Recap of Previous Labour Day Themes

2024 – “Pekerja Tonggak Keluarga MADANI”
2023 – “Pekerja Pemangkin Wadah Malaysia MADANI”
2022 – “Pekerja Tegas Negara Sejahtera”
2021 – “Pekerja Pencetus Aspirasi Keluarga Malaysia”
2020 – “Pekerja dan Keselamatan Negara”

Impact of Labour Day on Business Operations

Here are a few reminders for business owners and managers:

If your employees are required to work on 1 May, they are entitled to double pay or a replacement day off, depending on your internal policy.
Be transparent about work rosters, especially for essential roles.
Remind the payroll team to calculate any public holiday pay accurately.
Use this opportunity to boost employee morale with simple gestures like thank-you notes, emails, or even a short team huddle.

What Employers Can Do to Celebrate Labour Day

Even if you're not planning a grand event, small, thoughtful actions can go a long way. Here are a few ways to celebrate Labour Day with your team:

1. Post on Social Media

Share an appreciation post with photos or quotes from your team. Highlight the work your employees do behind the scenes.

2. Send a Thank-You Note

A personalised message via email, WhatsApp, or even a physical card adds a personal touch. Use the message templates at the end of this article to help.

3. Organise an Internal Appreciation Moment

You don’t need to rent a venue. A quick lunch treat, a half-day off, or even an internal shoutout session on your company Slack or Teams channel can create real impact.

4. Offer a One-Day Perk

Let your team leave work an hour early, or offer a simple digital voucher as a thank-you. It’s the gesture that counts.

Labour Day Wishes & Greetings from Employers to Employees

Here are sample wishes you can use:

In English

Thank you for your hard work and dedication. Wishing you a meaningful Labour Day!
Happy Labour Day! Your efforts are truly appreciated.
Wishing you a restful and rewarding Labour Day. Thank you for all that you do.
Your contribution to the company means a lot. Have a great Labour Day!
To our amazing team: Happy Labour Day. Your work never goes unnoticed.
Your commitment inspires us every day. Wishing you peace and rest this Labour Day.
Happy Labour Day! Thank you for being part of our journey.
You make a difference. Enjoy a well-deserved Labour Day break.
Labour Day is a time to appreciate the value of hard work, and we truly value yours.
Warm wishes to you and your family this Labour Day. Thank you for everything.

In Bahasa Malaysia

Selamat Hari Pekerja! Terima kasih atas dedikasi anda setiap hari.
Kami hargai usaha anda. Nikmati Hari Pekerja yang bermakna.
Terima kasih kerana menjadi tulang belakang syarikat ini. Selamat bercuti.
Setiap titik peluh anda amat kami hargai. Selamat Hari Pekerja.
Hari Pekerja ini, kami ingin mengucapkan terima kasih yang ikhlas.
Sumbangan anda sangat penting. Selamat menyambut Hari Pekerja.
Komitmen anda menjadikan tempat kerja ini lebih baik. Terima kasih.
Kami bangga dengan anda. Nikmati masa berehat anda.
Terima kasih kerana sentiasa berusaha dengan gigih. Selamat Hari Pekerja.
Semoga anda dan keluarga gembira menyambut Hari Pekerja.

In Mandarin

劳动节快乐！感谢您一直以来的辛勤付出。
祝您劳动节愉快，阖家幸福。
您的努力让公司更加成功，谢谢您！
感谢您每日的坚持与奉献，劳动节快乐。
愿您在劳动节享受一段美好时光，身体健康。
劳动节到了，感谢您的辛劳与努力。
祝您劳动节放松心情，享受属于您的时光。
公司因为有您而更精彩，劳动节快乐。
祝福您与家人共度一个温馨的劳动节。
感谢您的辛勤工作，我们衷心祝您节日快乐。

Labour Day Wishes & Greetings Email Templates 2025

Subject: Happy Labour Day – Thank You for Your Hard Work

Body:

Dear Team,

As we mark Labour Day this year, I would like to take a moment to sincerely thank each and every one of you for the dedication, professionalism, and effort you bring to work every day.

Your contribution plays a vital role in the growth of our company, and it’s something we never take for granted. Whether you are working behind the scenes or on the front lines, your work matters — and it makes a difference.

I hope you take this public holiday to relax, recharge, and spend time with those you care about. You deserve it.

Happy Labour Day, and thank you once again for all that you do.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]

Subject: Celebrating Labour Day – And a Job Well Done!

Body:

Hi Team,

With Labour Day just around the corner, I wanted to take this opportunity to not only thank you for your ongoing dedication but also to celebrate the recent milestones we’ve achieved together.

Finishing [insert project or achievement name] on time and with such high quality reflects your incredible teamwork and commitment. Your effort truly embodies the spirit of this holiday — honouring those who work hard to build and uplift.

Take this well-earned break to rest and recharge. We’ll come back stronger, with new goals and even more to accomplish together.

Wishing you and your family a restful Labour Day.

Warm regards,

[Your Name]
[Your Position]

Subject: Thank You & Happy Labour Day!

Body:

Hello [Team/Name],

Labour Day is a simple reminder that progress happens because of people like you — those who show up, do their best, and keep things moving even when it’s not easy.

We may be a small team, but the heart and hustle you bring to the table every day are what keep us growing. I’m truly grateful to have you on this journey with us.

Take this time to rest, do something you enjoy, and recharge. You’ve earned it.

Thank you again, and happy Labour Day.

Warm wishes,
[Your Name]
[Your Role or Signature Line]

Labour Day Wishes & Greetings WhatsApp Templates 2025

Happy Labour Day, team! Your effort every day is what keeps us going. Big thanks from all of us.
[Name], wishing you peace and happiness this Labour Day. Thanks for being a key part of our journey.
Happy Labour Day, [NAME]! Thank you for all your hard work. You make a big difference every day.
Wishing you a relaxing Labour Day, [TEAM]! You’ve earned this break. Enjoy!
Happy Labour Day to our amazing team at [COMPANY]! Your efforts are truly appreciated.
Cheers to all the hardworking people at [COMPANY]! Happy Labour Day 2025!
Today we celebrate you, [NAME]! Happy Labour Day and thank you for giving your best.
Happy Labour Day! Your passion and effort inspire us all. Keep shining, [NAME]!
[TEAM], take a break and celebrate your achievements today. Happy Labour Day!
Wishing you peace, rest, and happiness this Labour Day. Thank you, [NAME]!
To the heart and soul of [COMPANY] — our people. Happy Labour Day 2025!
Happy Labour Day, [NAME]! Your dedication doesn’t go unnoticed.
Labour Day is a reminder that hard work matters. Thank you, [TEAM], for everything you do.
[NAME], your effort is what makes success possible. Have a great Labour Day!
Happy Labour Day 2025! Rest well and come back stronger, [TEAM]!
Let’s celebrate all the hardworking hands and passionate hearts at [COMPANY].
[NAME], may your Labour Day be full of rest and joy. You deserve it!
It’s time to relax and enjoy — Happy Labour Day to you and your family!
To all the dreamers, doers, and builders at [COMPANY] — Happy Labour Day!
Work hard. Rest well. Happy Labour Day, [TEAM]!
[NAME], your hard work is the foundation of our success. Thank you!
Big salute to our everyday heroes — Happy Labour Day 2025!
On this day, we honour your hard work, [NAME]. You’re appreciated more than you know.
Happy Labour Day! Thank you for your commitment, passion, and energy.
[TEAM], let’s celebrate progress, growth, and teamwork this Labour Day.
[COMPANY] is strong because of people like you, [NAME]. Happy Labour Day!
Your efforts build our future, [NAME]. Enjoy your well-deserved Labour Day!
Wishing everyone at [COMPANY] a peaceful and joyful Labour Day!
Happy Labour Day to all our champs at [TEAM]! Keep doing amazing things.
[NAME], take a break and recharge. You’ve earned it. Happy Labour Day!
Thank you for being part of our journey, [NAME]. Happy Labour Day!
May this Labour Day bring you joy, rest, and pride in your work. Thank you, [NAME]!

FAQ

Is Labour Day a compulsory holiday in Malaysia?

Yes. Under Malaysian labour law, Labour Day on 1 May is a gazetted public holiday for all states.

Can employees be forced to work on Labour Day?

Yes, but they must receive public holiday wages, which could be double pay or compensated leave, based on the Employment Act.

How should employers calculate holiday pay?

Refer to your company’s policy and the Employment Act 1955. Generally, employees who work on a public holiday should be paid at 2x the daily rate, plus any overtime if applicable.

Running a business in Malaysia isn’t easy lah, so let AJobThing help your hiring needs

If you’re hiring, post your jobs or search candidate on Maukerja or Ricebowl—with over 6 million jobseekers in Malaysia, your next top talent is waiting!

Read More on AJobThing: