KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s workers are the backbone of the nation’s growth and must have a fair share of the country’s economic progress, says Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
Speaking during the Labour Day celebration at Bukit Jalil on Friday (May 1), Ramanan said every achievement enjoyed by the country was built on their sacrifices and hard work.
"Every solid building, every functioning system and every growth figure achieved was born from the hands of workers.
"When we defend workers, we uplift the standards of the entire country," he said in the presence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Ramanan said the Madani government’s economic reforms had strengthened the labour market and improved Malaysia’s competitiveness.
He said the economy grew by 5.2% last year, while Malaysia’s ranking in the World Competitiveness Ranking improved to 23rd place from 34th previously.
The unemployment rate also dropped to 2.9%, the lowest in 11 years, while women’s labour force participation rose to 56.5%.
"They are not just participating quietly, but are actively pushing the country forward," he said.
Ramanan added that the government’s minimum wage policy had benefitted more than 4.4 million workers, while labour law amendments had improved employee welfare.
Among the reforms introduced were 98 days of maternity leave, seven days of paternity leave and the reduction of maximum weekly working hours to 45 hours.
However, he acknowledged that many Malaysians were still struggling with the rising cost of living.
"We must be honest. There are still many workers who wake up early and return home late at night while worrying about the bills that need to be paid.
"Progress that is not shared fairly is not perfect progress," he said.
Beginning in June, he said, the government would implement the Lindung 24 Jam (24-hour coverage) scheme, extending social protection coverage to 9.6 million employees outside working hours.
Ramanan also announced that the Housewives Social Security Scheme (SKSSR) age limit would be increased from 55 to 60, benefitting more than 720,000 women.
"Housewives care for children, parents and sick family members. They contribute greatly to the country and it is time for us to repay their service with better protection," he said.
