GEORGE TOWN: Malaysia has underscored its firm commitment to upholding workers’ welfare, human dignity and regional cooperation during the 14th Asean Labour Inspection Conference.
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim said Malaysia is committed to ensuring that the accommodation provided to workers is in line with international standards.
He said the firm stand of the government could been seen through the enforcement of Workers Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations And Amenities Act 1990 [Act 446].
“The amendment of Act 446 in 2020 was a bold step by the ministry to strengthen the act by expanding the coverage from only the plantation and mining sectors to all sectors and employers who provide accommodation.
“In this regard, the ministry continues to improve the act to ensure that the workers’ accommodation provided is dignified,” he said in his speech at the 14th Asean Labour Inspection Conference in conjunction with the Asean-Malaysia chairmanship 2025.
The event was organised by the Labour Department of Peninsular Malaysia.
His speech was read by state executive council member Zairil Khir Johari.
Elaborating, Sim said workers’ accommodation is a key matter in ensuring fundamental human rights and basic needs.
“It is not a luxury or a privilege.
“Decent living conditions are essential to worker’s health, safety, and productivity,” he added.
According to Sim, Malaysia hopes that regional cooperation will continue to be strengthened through encouraging setting up of the guidelines on sustainable employee housing that encompass quality of life, mental health and safety.
“We also hope to work collaboratively with employers to encourage compliance with established standards.
”The Asean Labour Inspection Conference (ALIC) isa platform for exchanging views and sharing best practices among member states.
“The role of labour inspectors must be constantly strengthened and be equipped with extensive knowledge,” he added.
Meanwhile, Sim said the ministry welcomed Timor-Leste into the Asean family and congratulated the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste on its historic admission as the newest Asean member state, which reflected Asean’s inclusive, united and progressive vision.
Dermawan, A. (2025, October 28). Malaysia reaffirms commitment to workers’ welfare, regional solidarity at 14th Asean Labour Inspection Conference. The New Straits Times. https://www.nst.com.my/amp/news/nation/2025/10/1303507/malaysia-reaffirms-commitment-workers-welfare-regional-solidarity-14th
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