Malaysia is one of Asia's biggest employers of foreign labour. But recently, cases of deaths, abuse and forced labour have come to light. What is going on? Who is protecting these migrant workers?
29 January 2005
Since July 2004, the Malaysian Government has been preparing to launch a massive
crackdown on undocumented migrants. This crackdown will involve law enforcement
agencies (The Police and Immigration authorities) as well as members of the
public (RELA and Rukun Tetangga personnel). The Malaysian Government has announced
its intention to deport more than 1 million undocumented migrants through these
operations.
A host of tactics is often used to deny workers their
right to collective bargaining
by K George
Aliran Monthly 2004:7
Collective bargaining is the fundamental and primary function of workers’
associations, which are commonly known as trade unions all over the world. The
International Labour Organisation(ILO), an agency of the United Nations(UN),
was established in 1919. The ILO is commited to protecting the rights of workers,
including the right to collective bargaining. Its annual conference is attended
by two delegates each from every government and one delegate each representing
the workers’ and employers’ organisations of the respective countries.
A large majority of voters are from working families. Workers are the backbone of the economy and providers of families. They should be protected and nurtured. They should not be the victims of business restructuring, capitalist boom and busts cycles and technological advances.
Address: Wisma MTUC,10-5, Jalan USJ 9/5T, 47620 Subang Jaya,Selangor | Tel: 03-80242953 | Fax: 03-80243225 | Email: sgmtuc@gmail.com.com
