KUALA LUMPUR: The era of confrontation is over, and trade unions must move beyond the traditional employer-versus-worker relationship for the betterment of workers, says Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
He said their role could no longer be viewed solely through the traditional framework of employer-worker relations.
“Mature industrial relations exist when the government, employers and workers sit together to find the best solutions – safeguarding workers’ welfare, ensuring businesses continue to grow and remain resilient, and supporting the continued growth of our national economy,” he said at the Workers’ Union National Convention 2026 here yesterday.
Ramanan said the government remained open to views and feedback from all parties in improving policies and services, adding that despite differences in views, all shared the common goal of ensuring a fair, productive and sustainable world of work.
“We want trade unions that remain close to their members, understand change and have the courage to champion the voice of workers,” he said.
Ramanan also said trade unions needed to become more progressive and dynamic by embracing innovation, seeking new approaches and better understanding the realities of today’s workforce.
“We need to look ahead, five or 10 years from now. What will the jobs of the future look like, and what skills will workers need? With technologies such as AI emerging, the world of work is changing rapidly.
“So, we too need to change and learn how to use these technologies, so that none of us gets left behind,” he said.
The government, he said, distributed RM3.5mil through the Trade Union Affairs Programme Grant in June and July to strengthen trade unions as artificial intelligence, automation and digitalisation reshape the workplace.
“This allocation focuses on capacity building, education, governance and the digitalisation of trade unions, enabling them to become more efficient and professional.
“It also reflects the government’s confidence in trade unions as strategic partners in ensuring workers’ rights, welfare and interests continue to be protected,” Ramanan said.
Earlier, Trade Union Affairs Department director-general Bashah Bachik said trade unions must ensure their affairs were properly managed.
“The strength of a union is not measured solely by the number of its members or the volume of its voice. Its true strength lies in the trust of its members, the credibility of its leadership, orderly administration and its ability to achieve solutions through effective negotiation,” he said.
Bashah said compliance protected the organisation, its officers and members, while unions should come to negotiations with a clear mandate, accurate data and realistic proposals.
He said employers, meanwhile, should listen openly to workers and respect their right to organise, while the government would continue to facilitate stronger tripartite cooperation.
“The labour law reforms currently being implemented must be accompanied by greater understanding and capacity among all parties. Legal provisions can only fulfil their purpose when they are translated into fair practices, efficient administration and mature industrial relations,” he said.
