Malaysia is one of Asia's biggest employers of foreign labour. But recently, cases of deaths, abuse and forced labour have come to light. What is going on? Who is protecting these migrant workers?
An excellent workforce forms the basis of the country’s socio-economic achievement,
said Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
<p>"All workers must hold fast to the principle of excellence – to be skilful,
able and competitive besides being true to noble values," he said in his
Workers Day message. </p>
<p>He also hailed this year’s Workers Day theme Excellent Workers lead to an Outstanding
Nation as very apt and in line with the Government’s vision of creating a highly
skilled workforce to face new challenges in this era of a borderless world.
</p>
<p>Workers in this new age, he said, needed to have multiple skills to excel.
</p>
<p>"Workers also need to familiarise themselves with new work ethics and
environment that require them to be innovative and productive. </p>
<p>"In this situation, lifelong learning must be made a target for all workers
to avoid being left behind," he added. </p>
<p>The Government, he said, was very grateful for the strong support and cooperation
shown by workers and employers. </p>
<p>Abdullah also commended the healthy relationship that existed between the Government
and trade unions, and employers that was based on the principle of understanding
and cooperation. </p>
<p>"The Government would like to record its appreciation to trade union leaders
who had always been willing to resolve matters through the spirit of discussion,
thus avoiding actions that cause losses to all parties," he added.
Address: Wisma MTUC,10-5, Jalan USJ 9/5T, 47620 Subang Jaya,Selangor | Tel: 03-80242953 | Fax: 03-80243225 | Email: sgmtuc@gmail.com.com