PETALING JAYA: The government must reinforce the Social Security Organisation, broaden coverage under the Employment Insurance Scheme and ensure a fair and sustainable retirement system, says Datuk Nicole Wong Siaw Ting.
The MCA International Affairs and Party Diplomacy Bureau chairman said these measures are necessary to protect workers and their families from financial hardship.
In a statement ahead of Labour Day, Wong stressed that workers are more than economic contributors as they form the backbone of national development and must be recognised, protected and supported through concrete policy measures.
"Workers are not merely contributors to the economy. They are the foundation of nation-building.
"They deserve stable incomes, job security and full recognition of their rights. This is not a matter of charity; it is a national obligation," she said on Wednesday (April 30).
Wong, who also serves as Special Officer to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, highlighted the need for comprehensive, forward-thinking policies to safeguard worker welfare amid rising living costs and industrial transformation.
"In the age of digitalisation and automation, it is vital for the government to be forward-thinking by providing opportunities for reskilling, lifelong learning and adaptive support mechanisms, so that workers can remain relevant and resilient as industries evolve," she said.
She also stressed the importance of a collective approach, urging all stakeholders, including the government, employers and society, to build a fairer and more inclusive working environment.
"Labour Day is not just a celebration of workers; it is a reminder that we must never take our workers’ contributions for granted.
"We must foster a culture that values work and build robust support systems to ensure that national progress is shared by all," Wong said.
