No need for new law on discrimination against persons with disabilities, says Sivakumar


KUALA LUMPUR: The country's laws on workplace discrimination cover persons with disabilities as well and there is no need to enact specific legislation for this group, says Human Resources Minister V. Sivakumar.

"In Australia, Canada and India they have laws to address discrimination of persons with physical and mental disabilities.

“But this is dependent on (a particular) country where it could have discrimination cases related to this aspect (of persons with disabilities), hence the need for a specific law," he told a press conference at Parliament on Monday (Oct 16).

In the Dewan Rakyat, William Leong (PH-Selayang) had asked if the government intended to formulate specific legislation to address issues of workplace discrimination, particularly involving those with physical or mental disabilities.

In his reply, Sivakumar said the Labour Department had received only eight reported cases of discrimination up to Sept 30 this year.

“All of them have been handled,” he said, adding that none of them involved employees with disabilities.

The minister did not, however, specify whether the incidents involved the public or private sector.

Sivakumar also said the amended Employment Act 1955 Section 69F which took effect on Jan 1 granted the Labour Department director-general the authority to look into and decide on employee-employer disputes involving discrimination.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Nation

Man dies, another injured as container lorry overturns on East-West Highway
Prioritise healthcare, safeguard national peace, says Anwar
Mat Sabu inspects coral reef conservation at Pulau Payar Marine Park
FMM president urges manufacturers to update workers on Socso’s new medical initiative
Shafie: Upcoming election is for Sabahans to choose an effective Chief Minister
Floods: Sabah evacuees increase, Sarawak numbers decline
Kluang council denies allegations of mistreatment of stray dogs
Dreamlike experience for Malaysian trainee solicitor who earned 'Freeman of the City of London'
Sultan Selangor calls for unity, rejects proposed guidelines on Muslims at non-Muslim celebrations
Navy Sports Association urged to maintain momentum after ISG victory

Others Also Read