TAWAU: The Sabah Labour Ordinance Bill 2024 amendment is considered highly historic after nearly 20 years of efforts to align the rights and protection of workers in Sabah with those in Peninsular Malaysia under the Employment Act 1955.
Sabah Softwoods Berhad (SSB) Board of Directors Chairman Datuk Mohd Arsad Bistari is confident that the amendment, which was tabled in the Dewan Rakyat, will positively impact the welfare and rights of workers in Sabah, particularly those in the government-linked company (GLC).
As such, he expressed his appreciation to the State Government for its great concern over the tabling of the Bill in the interest of the 2.06 million workers and 187,365 employers in Sabah.
This will, in turn, enhance the country’s image in labour matters.
“As we are aware, this Bill was tabled to amend the Sabah Labour Ordinance (Chapter 67 of Sabah) following the first amendment made in 2005.
“This amendment involves 16 key areas encompassing 70 clauses, aimed at harmonising labour laws to include the three main acts enforced in the peninsula.
“These documents involve the Employment Act 1955, the Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodation and Employee Facilities Act 1990, and the Children and Young Persons (Employment) Act 1966,” he said.
Arsad, who is also the Tempasuk Assemblyman, said this when officiating the SSB Family Day 2024 at the Kapilit Estate Mini Stadium, SSB, here, on Saturday, which was attended by around 8,400 people.
His speech was read by SSB Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Datuk Mohd Daud Tampokong.
Touching on the programme, Mohd Arsad said the event was an effective platform for organisations, particularly SSB, to further strengthen relationships and foster team spirit.
He hoped that the programme’s content would positively impact the organisation by instilling a more profound sense of love, family spirit, and cooperation.
In addition, he urged all SSB employees to cultivate a spirit of mutual encouragement, close cooperation, and unity in providing the best commitment to their entrusted responsibilities.
“They must also strive to improve their capabilities, efficiency, and work expertise while practising noble values in their daily duties,” he said.
