Generally, Labour related matters in Malaysia are governed by the Employment Act of 1955, Industrial Relations Act of 1967 and the Trade Union Act 1959.

These Laws are with many flaws that adversely affects workers in general and causes severe injustices.
Trade unions in our country play a vital role for the economy of the country and in protecting workers against injustices and exploitation. Hence; Labour laws with flaws must be amended to accommodate Equitable Justice for all concerned. For example:

1. The limit of RM 2, 000 to be eligible for protection under the Employment Act 1955 must be repealed and the minimum benefits stated therein must be enhanced;

2. Recognition and registrations of trade unions should be simplified and the 6-month’s processing period reduced to accommodate unions’ priority;

3. Secret ballot requirement, grace period for Collective Agreements coming into effect under Section 30 (7) and the limitation of 24 months’ back wages when successful in a dismissal case in the Industrial Relations Act should be repealed.

4. Shorter redress period for trade disputes and dismissals; dismissal cases should be referred to the Industrial Court directly for resolution.

Trade Unions need to be consolidated and strengthened to achieve the above improvement in Labour Laws. BARISAN MANTAP MTUC, when elected pledges to work hard for the above improvement.

Long Live MTUC – Long Live Workers