Enhanced Government-Labour Relations in Malaysia: Minister of Human Resources Historic Visit to UNI MLC

In a positive move, Mr. Steven Sim Chee Keong, the newly appointed Minister of Human Resources, made his inaugural visit to UNI MLC on January 16, 2024. This visit, which took place at UNI MLC’s office in the Bangsar district of Kuala Lumpur, set a promising tone for the new year.

Upon arrival, Minister Sim received a warm welcome from UNI MLC President Datuk Mohamed Shafie BP Mammal and other union officers. During the meeting, President Shafie provided Minister Sim with a comprehensive overview of UNI MLC’s activities spanning the past 24 years. He shared the organization’s notable successes and achievements as a labour centre and as a coordinating body for UNI affiliates’ advocacy, organizing, and trade union activities in collaboration with UNI Asia & Pacific Regional Organization (UNI Apro) and UNI Global Union.

Addressing the UNI MLC team, Minister Sim pledged his commitment to understanding the challenges faced by Malaysian workers and improving their welfare. He commended UNI MLC’s Smart Partnership approach to promoting employees’ well-being and rights, specifically praising their initiatives in Organizing and Trade Union Development programs. 

In a pleasant move, Minister Sim announced a significant boost in financial assistance for Trade Union Affairs training programs. The Ministry’s support would double from RM 10,000 to RM 20,000, providing substantial aid for the advancement of workers’ skills and knowledge in labour-related matters.

President Shafie expressed deep appreciation for Minister Sim’s historic visit, emphasizing its significance in fostering a collaborative relationship between the Ministry of Human Resources Malaysia and UNI MLC. He noted that this visit creates a vital platform for sharing valuable information and ideas aimed at enhancing the well-being of workers in Malaysia.

UNI Asia & Pacific Regional Secretary Rajendra Acharya applauded the occasion, describing it as a highly encouraging development. He remarked that Minister Sim’s visit reflects the dedicated efforts of UNI MLC and holds promise for strengthening social dialogue between UNI’s affiliates and the Ministry of Human Resources. The positive tone set during this visit bodes well for the continued collaboration and mutual growth in the interests of Malaysian workers.