KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) will establish a committee comprising of representatives from all sectors to discuss several law amendments by the government, particularly those affecting workers in Sabah.
Its chairman, Awang Ali Ahmad Raji, said a recent meeting with the Human Resource Ministry had revealed plans to amend a number of acts, including the Industrial Relations Act, Trade Unions Act and Sabah Labour Ordinance.
“When the amendments are made, the fear lies in not only the aspect of our work system but also our union system that would have less freedom. One of the proposals that will be made or amended, is that a union can be led or represented by non-local people,” Awang Ali said at a press conference recently.
“Which means, a foreign worker or contractual worker here could hold the highest position in a union. MTUC Sabah has objected to this as even today, certain employers have already sidelined our unions and this will become worse if the proposed amendments is done in the nearest future,” he explained.
The Manpower Department will also amend the Sabah Labour Ordinance (Cap 67) that will change terms affecting the state’s working layout and overtime payment. For example the current 12 working hours could be increased with the Sabah Labour Ordinance amendements, said Awang Ali.
He disclosed that MTUC has already submitted a memorandum to voice its objection to Human Resource Minister Datuk Richard Riot Jaem on June 16 and will hold a discussion after the Hari Raya celebrations.
“All the state’s workers, whether they belong to a union or not, can participate in the meet to give their suggestions as they are affected by the Sabah Law Ordinance. We will set up a committee and the committee will discuss this issue. There will also be a tripartite discussion, which will include the government,” elaborated Awang Ali.
According to MTUC Sabah secretary Catherine Jikunan, the amendments are adjusted in preparation of the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA) adoption in Malaysia.
“Currently, the Act allows foreign workers to become union members but cannot hold key positions. The amendment will allow foreign workers to hold office even if they are outside of the country. For example if the person is from Indonesia, he can still hold the post of president,” said Catherine.
“If this happens, we will be finished,” she added.