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?
Minister of Resource Development and Information Technology Datuk Dr Yee Moh
Chai said that in any new legislation, there was bound to be problems initially
and adjustments had to be made.
<p>"I have received complaints from both sides on matters such as overtime
pay, annual leave and public holidays but such a situation is expected. What
is important is to maintain a cordial relationship," he told reporters
after launching a media briefing on the amended Sabah Labour Ordinance organised
by the Sabah Journalists Association, here.</p>
<p>Yee said both employers and employees should stop antagonising each other as
it would not benefit them economically.</p>
<p>In this respect, he said, the media could play an important role in disseminating
information to the targeted parties pertaining to the rights of employers and
employers under the amended ordinance.</p>
<p>"They have to be aware of that (amendment) because of the need to avoid
dispute or being penalised under the law that is in force now. This legislature
is very important as it governs the working relations between employers and
employees which define the rights of the respective parties," he said.</p>
<p>The amended Sabah labour laws were approved by Parliament in December 2004
but the government postponed enforcement to give employers more time to update
and adjust themselves with the amended provisions.</p>
<p>Among new sections introduced were those on working days and hours allowed
as well as the employment of children and young persons in public entertainment
outlets, the provision of annual leave eligibility for workers in the state
between eight and 16 days a year according to their period of employment and
the eligibility to enjoy medical leave of between 14 and 22 days a year. —
BERNAMA
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