KUCHING: The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak Division has expressed its deepest appreciation over the full implementation of the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (SLO), describing it as the best Labour Day gift for workers in the State after two decades of waiting.
MTUC Sarawak Chairman, Zaidi Nasar, said the long-awaited reform marks a historic milestone that finally puts Sarawakian workers on equal footing with their counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia.
“After a 20-year wait, workers in the State of Sarawak have finally received the best gift in conjunction with Labour Day 2025 – full control over the Sarawak Labour Ordinance, which comes into effect on May 1.
“Highest appreciation and gratitude to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim who has fulfilled the long-awaited promise of reform.
“Our deepest thanks also go to the Minister of Human Resources, Steven Sim, for his concern and commitment.
“Despite holding the position for only a short period, he has brought about significant changes and amendments to acts involving workers.
“His efficiency and efforts truly reflect leadership that upholds workers’ welfare,” Zaidi said.
“Not to be forgotten is the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and the Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala, for their strong support of this initiative,” he said in a statement today.
Among the key amendments introduced in the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (SLO) are:
7-day Paternity Leave – Male employees are now entitled to seven (7) days of paid paternity leave to support work-life balance and family well-being.
Extended Maternity Leave – Maternity leave for female employees has been extended from 60 days to 98 days, providing better protection and support for working mothers.
Reduced Working Hours – The maximum weekly working hours have been reduced from 48 to 45 hours to better ensure worker well-being and productivity.
Better Protection for Contract Workers – Contract workers now enjoy stronger protections, including fairer contract durations and access to employment benefits equivalent to permanent employees.
Overtime Pay Rates – Overtime payment has been standardised to match that of workers in Peninsular Malaysia.
Occupational Health and Safety Rights – Increased protections regarding workplace safety, including stricter regulations for employers to ensure a safe and risk-free working environment.
Flexible Work Arrangements – Employees can now apply for Flexible Work Arrangements, allowing them to adjust work hours, locations and methods to improve work-life balance. Employers must consider such applications fairly, aligned with company operations and employee welfare.
Expanded Protection for All Workers – The Sarawak Labour Ordinance now extends beyond just those earning RM2,500 and below to all employees regardless of salary or job type. This ensures full labour law protection for all workers in Sarawak, including professionals and executives.
Monitoring and Enforcement – Enforcement mechanisms are strengthened to ensure employers comply with labour regulations without compromise, with stricter actions against non-compliance.
Zaidi said the achievement is a testament to the joint efforts of leadership and worker unions in championing the rights of Sarawakian workers.
“With these amendments, Sarawak’s labour force can now enjoy the same benefits as their peers in Peninsular Malaysia.
“Congratulations to a leadership that truly listens and acts in the interest of Sarawak workers,” he mentioned.
