KUCHING: This year’s Labour Day is especially significant as Sarawak is celebrating a major milestone in protecting and empowering workers with the recent amendments to the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (SLO).
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration & Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala said the amendments which have been approved by parliament and assented to by Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar will take effect on May 1.
“The recent amendments to Sarawak’s labour laws bring them in line with the Employment Act 1955 in Peninsular Malaysia and international labour standards,” he said in his Labour Day message.
“This move demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights, promoting social justice, and ensuring fair employment practices across all sectors.
“Key changes include broader legal coverage for all employees regardless of salary or job type, increased maternity leave from 60 to 98 days, and the introduction of seven days of paid paternity leave.”
Gerawat stated the amendments also involve working hours which have been reduced from 48 to 45 hours per week to support work-life balance, and that employees can now apply for flexible work arrangements to suit their personal needs.
“Additional improvements focus on worker welfare and protection. Employers are now required to provide proper housing that meets health and safety standards.
“Anti-discrimination measures have also been introduced, allowing employees to report unfair treatment.
“These reforms were shaped through consultations with unions, employers, and civil society, reflecting a united effort to create a fair and humane working environment,” he added.
Gerawat said Labour Day reminds everyone that protecting workers is a shared responsibility, stating that while laws set the standard, real progress depends on mutual respect, dialogue and partnership.
“I urge employers to not only comply with the law but to embrace its spirit — by investing in worker welfare, training and safe working conditions.
“To our workers: your voices matter. The government will continue reviewing and improving labour laws to meet the realities of today’s workforce,” he said.
Gerawat said Sarawak will make history this year by hosting its first-ever State-level Labour Day assembly on May 18 which will be officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“This event will celebrate and recognise the immense contributions of workers across all sectors, and reinforce the state’s commitment to fair labour practices and the well-being of our workforce.
“We honour the dedication, resilience, hard work and contribution of our workers who have helped build our state and nation, power our economy, and strengthen our communities. Your spirit of perseverance, dedication, adaptability, and unity — especially during the Covid-19 pandemic and recovery period — continues to inspire our progress.
“Thus, on this Labour Day, let us move forward with unity and purpose — upholding the dignity and value of labour and striving for a better and progressive Sarawak where no worker is left behind,” he said.
