Category Archives: Circulars

Foreign worker recruitment must be driven by needs, not business interests

KUALA LUMPUR: The recruitment of foreign workers into Malaysia must be based on actual sectoral needs and demands, not driven by business interests or profit-making motives, says Human Resources Minister Steven Sim. The statement issued by the Human Resources Ministry on Friday (May 16) followed Sim’s courtesy meeting on Thursday (May 15) with Dr Asif […]

Dinner, commute, family time too: HR minister says workers may get 24/7 social security coverage under Socso Act upgrade

KEPALA BATAS, Sept 6 — The Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma) is drafting amendments to the Employees’ Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4), to provide 24-hour social security protection for employees under the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso). Human Resources Minister Steven Sim said if there are no issues, the amendments to the bill are expected […]

From wage regulation to dispute resolution: How the Gig Workers Bill offers safeguards for 1.2 million Malaysians

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 2 — The Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma) on August 25 tabled the Gig Workers Bill 2025, which it described as a major milestone in the bid to regulate gig work and protect millions of workers. The Bill, which was passed on August 28, came after years of protests over what workers […]

Suhakam raises red flag over Gig Workers Bill 2025, warns of weak protections

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 28 — The Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has expressed concern over the drafting process of the Gig Workers Bill 2025 despite welcoming its intent. In a statement, the commission criticised the government for not consulting Suhakam during the preparation of the Bill. This omission was particularly troubling as the Suhakam […]

MEF backs 13MP workforce strategy, calls for more incentives to boost skills

KUALA LUMPUR, July 31 — The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has called for stronger alignment between government policies and industry needs under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), urging Putrajaya to offer direct incentives for companies that invest in workforce upskilling. Its president, Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman, said while MEF supports the inclusive vision […]

MEF supports HR ministry’s call for paid leave and flexible work for employees affected by Putra Heights gas fire

KUALA LUMPUR, April 4 — The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) fully supports the Human Resources Ministry’s call for employers to grant paid compassionate leave and consider flexible work arrangements for employees affected by the recent gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights. President Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman emphasised the incident’s significant impact on the […]

World Bank survey: Firms think women are key to performance, but still sees raising children as barrier to hiring

KUALA LUMPUR, July 22 — Many Malaysian firms believe hiring more women significantly boosts productivity and makes their companies more attractive to talent. Despite this recognition, few are willing to assist with or accommodate a significant challenge women face in the workplace, namely childcare, according to a World Bank survey report released this afternoon. Over […]

JPA reviewing civil service talent policy to give younger officers senior roles, says Dr Zaliha

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 20 — Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said that the Public Service Department (JPA) is currently reviewing the new civil service talent development policy, including creating opportunities for younger officers to hold senior government positions. She said that the implementation details are still being […]

Malaysia PM announces cash aid, fuel price cut to address rising living costs

KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 (Reuters) – Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced new measures on Wednesday to address growing public disquiet about the rising cost of living, including a cash handout for all adult citizens and a promise to lower fuel prices. His statement in a televised broadcast came ahead of a planned protest to […]

Gig Workers Bill 2025 passes in Dewan Rakyat

KUALA LUMPUR: The Gig Workers Bill 2025, aimed at protecting the social welfare of gig workers in the industry, has been passed in the Dewan Rakyat following a voice vote. Human Resources Minister Steven Sim said the Bill’s passing was vital not just for ensuring the welfare of p-hailing and e-hailing riders but also for […]