KUCHING: The recently passed Sarawak Labour Ordinance (Amendment) Bill 2024 in Parliament brings substantial benefits to workers and employers, contributing to the social and economic advancement of Sarawak.
Mas Gading MP Mordi Bimol thanked Minister of Human Resources Steven Sim for his efforts to uphold the welfare and well-being of the nation’s workforce.
“This effort marks a historic milestone after more than two decades without amendments to the Sarawak Labour Ordinance.
“I fully support this Bill, which will bring significant benefits to nearly 1.5 million workers in Sarawak. This step demonstrates the Madani government’s commitment to ensure justice and rights of Sarawakian workers are aligned with the state’s progress towards becoming a developed region by 2030,” he said.
He said several adjustments in the amendments would be able to enhance workers’ welfare which include:
- expanding coverage for workers eligible for overtime pay, rest day pay, public holiday pay, and termination benefits from those earning RM2,500 per month to those earning RM4,000 per month;
- introducing provisions on minimum standards for housing, accommodation, and employee amenities in line with Act 446;
- new provisions addressing sexual harassment, employment discrimination, forced labour; and
- flexible working arrangements in line with recent amendments to Act 265.
“The amendment also included reducing working hours from 48 hours to 45 hours per week; extending maternity leave to 98 days and introducing 7 days of paternity leave; and protection against dismissal of pregnant employees.
“These amendments are crucial steps in empowering workers in Sarawak and ensuring their rights are protected without discrimination,” he said.
However, Mordi expressed concerns about challenges in implementation, particularly in remote and rural areas of Sarawak, where workers are often unaware of their rights.
“Many workers in these areas are unaware of their rights, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation,” he said.
He proposed that the government introduce mobile units or user-friendly digital platforms to disseminate information to workers in remote areas; provide training for rural employers to ensure they understand their responsibilities under the Ordinance; and have more active and effective awareness campaigns using local mediums such as radio and community gatherings.
“I also wish to highlight the issue of the minimum working age, set at 13 years in this Bill. I believe this age is too young.
“Children at this age are still in their developmental phase and need protection from exploitation and discrimination. I propose raising the minimum working age to 15 years, in line with international standards,” he said.
To ensure the effectiveness of the Ordinance’s implementation, he said the government must strengthen monitoring mechanisms, including regular audits of workplaces, especially in the plantation sector.
“Basic facilities and worker accommodations must also meet minimum hygiene and safety standards to ensure the welfare of workers in this sector,” he added.
