Should Malaysia Have Non-discrimination Policy for Workers?

The Union Network International-Malaysia Labour Centre (UNI-MLC) is pushing the government to implement a policy of rejecting investment and business that discriminates against and oppresses Malaysian workers as soon as possible.

 

Open to people-oriented companies only 

UNI-MLC's president, Datuk Mohd Shafie BP Mammal, said the organisation supports the National Union of Bank Employees' request on February 14 for the federal and state governments to adopt a clear stance on only welcoming enterprises and international investments that are thoroughly people-oriented.

He went on to say that both the federal and state governments must have the political will and absolute commitment to bringing in quality investors who are prepared to put local workers' interests ahead of profit.

He said that it's time for the government to adopt a new normative approach to guaranteeing that Malaysian workers' interests are prioritised and safeguarded by focusing on a win-win situation.

He added that it is not just investors and employers who enjoy the one-party advantage, which is profit.

 

A win-win situation for employers and workers

Mohd Shafie emphasised that, as a representative group for workers, trade unions aim to provide a harmonious working environment and industrial relations at all times.

He explained that UNI-MLC's stance is based on the notion that only a harmonious workplace will allow individuals to experience positive growth and development at all times, benefiting both employers and employees.

"We must agree that there are some big-hearted corporations in Malaysia that are eager and devoted to protecting workers' rights."

"In the most recent example, Aeon Co (M) Bhd decided to raise the minimum wage to RM1,500 on January 1, 2022, despite the federal government's announcement that it would not implement the regulation until later this year," he said.

The UNI-MLC is urging the government to create a policy of rejecting foreign businesses that discriminate against local workers.​
 

A zero-tolerance policy toward worker persecution

Mohd Shafie believes the federal government and every state government must implement a zero-tolerance policy towards worker persecution at all levels by establishing a framework that includes more constructive legislation.

He went on to say that this would entail a review of the Industrial Harmony Code of Conduct.

He also stated that the government should ensure provisions relating to employment guarantees or securities at all times due to job uncertainty, fear of retrenchment and retirement, and forced labour.

He emphasised that this will significantly impact employee attitudes and favourable industry relations. He said that if left unchecked, it will continue to degrade Malaysia's good name and reputation both at home and abroad.

"All government agencies at federal and state levels should pay attention to this issue. It needs to be highlighted if we truly want to be a developed and high-income country," he stated.

 

Source: The Malaysian Reserve