Malaysia ratifies key ILO health and safety convention

In a highlight of the 112^th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Malaysia’s Minister of Human Resources, Steven Sim, handed over the ratification document of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Occupational Safety and Health Convention No. 155 to ILO Director-General Gilbert F Houngbo on 12 June 2024.

The ILO Convention 155 is a key international instrument that guides the development of a coherent national occupational safety and health (OSH) policy and actions by governments and enterprises to promote OSH and improve working conditions.

UNI Malaysian Liaison Council (UNI-MLC) President Datuk Mohamed Shafie BP Mammal, also the UNI Asia & Pacific Vice President, who was in attendance, said:

“This is a crucial moment for the labour movement and all workers in Malaysia. I truly congratulate Minister Sim for championing the ratification in less than a year since he assumed the post. This ratification will enliven the effort and enthusiasm of all stakeholders to raise the country’s labour standards.” 

UNI Asia & Pacific Regional Secretary Rajendra Acharya said, “Congratulations to Malaysia on ratifying ILO Convention 155! This ratification is a historic milestone and all workers in the country can look forward to better occupational health and safety protection.”

According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Human Resources statement issued on the occasion, the move complements the amendment made to the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (Act 514) (Amendment) 2022 (Act A1648), which came recently into force on 1 June 2024.