KUALA LUMPUR: Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong hosted an informal luncheon meeting on Oct 21, with the International Labour Organization (ILO) director-general Gilbert F. Houngbo.
This visit marks a historic occasion as it is the first official visit by an ILO director-general to Malaysia.
The luncheon, held at Cili Kampung Restaurant in Kuala Lumpur, featured a spread of local dishes, including the ‘king of fruits’, durian, which proved to be a highlight for the ILO delegation.
The relaxed and friendly atmosphere reflected the spirit of openness and camaraderie that has long underpinned the Malaysia–ILO relationship.
The gathering was also attended by representatives from the government, workers and employers, underscoring the mutual respect and trust formed under the foundation of Malaysia’s tripartite cooperation.
Sim (middle in white) and Houngbo (third from left) with (from far left to far right) MTUC vice president Rajamorganana Narunan, Datuk Abdul Halim Mansor, Datuk Dr Syed Hussain, MEF vice president Dr Mohd Syukri Ahmad Sudari and Mohd Zool Asmani.
Among those present were the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman, the Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) president Datuk Abdul Halim Mansor, the Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (CUEPACS) deputy secretary-general Mohd Zool Asmani Mahmood and the ministry’s International Division secretary Raja Mohd Nizam Raja Kamarulbahrin.
During the meeting, Sim conveyed Malaysia’s intention to join the Global Coalition for Social Justice at the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) in 2026.
The coalition, established by the ILO in 2023, aims to strengthen global efforts towards achieving universal social justice.
Malaysia’s future participation will reaffirm the nation’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights, expanding social protection coverage and supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Sim (right) presenting Huongbo with durian at the luncheon.
Houngbo is scheduled to attend the Global Skills Forum (GSF) on Oct 22, which is organised by HRD Corp, an agency under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA).
The forum is expected to serve as a key platform for enhancing regional cooperation on skills development and the future of employment.
