By Ratatouille (Majangkim Office)
KOTA KINABALU For the first time since the formation of Malaysia, workers in Sabah and Sarawak now enjoy the same core labour protections as their counterparts in Peninsular Malaysia — thanks to historic amendments to the Sabah Labour Ordinance (Cap. 67) and the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (Cap. 76) that took effect exactly one year ago on May 1, 2024.
The changes, which harmonised key provisions across all three regions, were described by the Human Resources Ministry (KESUMA) as a landmark achievement in the nation’s labour history.
[Official quote placeholder: “The amendments reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to worker welfare and equal treatment regardless of geography,” a ministry spokesperson said.]
Previously, the Sabah and Sarawak ordinances lagged behind the Employment Act 1955 (Act 265) that governs Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan. Critics had long pointed to lower maternity leave caps, weaker coverage for salaried employees, and the absence of paternity leave in East Malaysia.
Under the 2025 amendments: Coverage now applies to all employees regardless of salary or job type, removing the previous monthly wage cap of RM2,500.
Maternity leave increased from 60 days to 98 days of paid leave.
Paternity leave is introduced as seven days’ paid leave for married male employees.
Working hours reduced from 48 to 45 hours per week.
New protections for flexible working arrangements, workplace discrimination, forced labour complaints, and sexual harassment.
Certain sections on workers’ housing remain to be enforced. Labour advocates note that while the amendments mark a significant leap forward, challenges remain, including wage stagnation and gig worker protections.
Millions of workers across Malaysia will mark Labour Day on May 1, a public holiday rooted in the 19th-century struggle for the eight-hour workday and observed in more than 160 countries worldwide. In Malaysia, Labour Day has been a national public holiday for decades.
This year, official celebrations are scheduled to take place with the participation of government leaders, labour unions, and trade associations.
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Prime Minister are expected to issue messages acknowledging workers’ contributions to the nation’s economy.
Happy Holidays to all workers in Malaysia — you deserve it.
