BY JACINTHA JOLENE & DEZIREEN GALOH
KUCHING: About 3,000 participants are expected to attend the state-level Labour Day 2026 celebration scheduled for May 10 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala said preparations are underway following the first coordination meeting involving various government agencies, departments, and stakeholders.
“We have set May 10 as the date for the state-level Labour Day celebration, to be held at BCCK here.
“The theme for this year is ‘Pekerja Cemerlang Sarawak Maju Makmur’,” he told a press conference after chairing a meeting on the organisation of Labour Day 2026 here today.
He said the theme reflects the strong link between quality workers and Sarawak’s aspiration to become a developed and high-income state under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
“When we have excellent workers across various sectors, they will help drive economic growth, improve productivity, and contribute to the overall wellbeing of society.
“This theme underscores the importance of recognising and appreciating the role of workers in achieving Sarawak’s progress and prosperity,” he added.
Gerawat noted that the expected turnout marks a significant increase from last year’s inaugural state-level celebration in 2025, which recorded 1,500 participants and earned recognition in the Malaysia Book of Records for the largest gathering of workers and related agencies in the state.
“For 2026, we are targeting around 3,000 participants, doubling last year’s figure,” he said.
Among the highlights of the celebration will be the officiating ceremony by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg as well as the launch of Job Sarawak, an official platform to strengthen the labour market in Sarawak.
The event will also feature the presentation of the Outstanding Worker Award, which will be divided into two categories — executive and non-executive.
In addition, a new Outstanding Employer Award will be introduced for the first time, with categories for large companies and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Gerawat added that the programme will also include briefings and engagement sessions on recent amendments to the Sarawak Labour Ordinance, which were passed in December 2024.
“This will provide an opportunity for both workers’ representatives and employers to better understand the amendments and engage directly with the relevant authorities,” he said.
