Kota Kinabalu, Sabah | Monday, 19 May 2025
The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) through the Department of Trade Union Affairs (JHEKS) continues to strengthen the labour reform agenda by organising the 2025 Labour Law Transformation Programme which took place at Le Meridien Hotel, Kota Kinabalu. With the theme “Progressive Labour, Competitive Nation”, this programme emphasises the government’s commitment in empowering workers’ rights and driving industrial harmony, especially in Sabah.
The program started as early as 8.00 am and saw the participation of various stakeholders in a forum session titled “Transformation of Labour Law: Empowering Labour Law Towards Industrial Harmony in Sabah”. This session opened a space for constructive dialogue regarding the implementation of the Sabah Labour Ordinance which came into force on 1 May 2025.
The ceremony began with the singing of patriotic songs, pledges and prayers as symbols of national spirit. The welcoming speech was delivered by YBrs. Encik Mohd Asri bin Abdul Wahab, Director General of the Malaysian Trade Unions, while the opening speech was completed by YBhg. Datuk Mohd. Hanafiah bin Mohd. Kassim, Permanent Secretary of the Sabah Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.
The program also featured a question and answer session with the panel, giving participants the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the latest legal aspects that directly impact workers and employers in the state.
In line with the core values of Malaysia Madani, namely Justice, Creativity, and Compassion, this initiative not only strengthens protection for workers but also demonstrates the government’s comprehensive efforts in aligning economic development with social well-being. This initiative signifies the government’s continued commitment to driving the modernization of the labor system to be more progressive and inclusive.
