21 July 2025 | ADTEC JTM Campus, Mersing, Johor
The Department of Trade Union Affairs (JHEKS) continues its commitment to promoting trade unionism among the younger generation through the successful organisation of the Trade Union Awareness Programme at ADTEC JTM Campus, Mersing, Johor. The programme attracted participation from approximately 170 students and organising committee members, making it one of the most impactful outreach initiatives targeted at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students.
The programme was officially launched by YBrs. Tuan Haji Mohd Asri Bin Abdul Wahab, Director General of JHEKS Malaysia, who also delivered a keynote address emphasizing the vital role young people play in shaping a responsible and rights-conscious workforce. Also featured in the programme was a speaker from the Kluang District Labour Office, who shared insights on labour laws and the legal protection available to workers under the national labour system.
This initiative is part of JHEKS’ broader strategy to cultivate early awareness among TVET students on the importance of forming and joining trade unions once they transition into the workforce. Various interactive sessions were held, including talks, Q&A segments, and experience-sharing to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of unions in advocating for employee welfare and rights.
The programme produced clear positive impacts, especially in increasing students’ awareness and interest in trade unions as legitimate platforms for employee voice and protection. Participants showed strong engagement and curiosity in learning about the union formation process and the long-term benefits of working within a unionised environment. The programme also helped raise awareness about workers’ rights even before students enter the real working world.
In his address, JHEKS Director General YBrs. Tuan Haji Mohd Asri expressed hope that similar programmes will be extended to other technical and training institutions across the country. He stressed the importance of early education on trade unionism to prepare future workers who are knowledgeable about their rights, confident in voicing concerns, and active in building a safe, fair, and harmonious workplace.
“Today’s students are tomorrow’s workforce. It is our responsibility to equip them early with the knowledge of their rights and responsibilities in the workplace—through trade unions as a legitimate and constructive platform.“
JHEKS remains optimistic that, through continuous outreach and strategic collaboration with educational institutions and related agencies, trade union awareness among youth will continue to strengthen, aligning with the national agenda of fostering a more equitable and progressive labour ecosystem.
