By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 4: Sarawak Timber Association (STA) commends the State government for its persistent commitment to advancing the amendments to the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (SLO) and for its continuous efforts in engaging with federal agencies to refine it further.
According to a statement issued today by STA honorary secretary Wong Ting Chung, this includes the proposal for a provision requiring prior consultation for future amendments to the SLO, which was recently clarified by Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala, in response to Sarawak Bank Employees Union’s (SBEU) criticisms of the State government’s lack of effort in amending the SLO.
“As an industry, we earnestly seek the support of all stakeholders, including SBEU, in rallying behind the State government as they diligently tackle the crucial issues that lie at the heart of the Sarawak administration.
“It is imperative to acknowledge the State government’s steadfast commitment and forward-thinking measures in addressing and overcoming future challenges, specifically pertaining to the welfare and advancement of our workers,” Wong said.
“We recognise and commend the immense value and foresight embedded in the State government’s proposal for a consultation provision within the SLO.
“In this regard, we stand firmly behind the State government’s policy and decisions, appreciating the significant long-term benefits associated with incorporating the proposed provision.”
He said that STA reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to supporting the State government’s visionary initiatives aimed at safeguarding the rights and interests of workers within Sarawak, thereby fostering progress and prosperity for the State.
In a statement released last month, SBEU expressed frustration with the delay in tabling the SLO amendment bill in Parliament, despite the State Cabinet’s approval three years ago.
According to its chief executive officer (CEO) Andrew Lo, the delay is seen as detrimental to workers’ rights, as employers benefit from the lack of progress.
“It has been 12 years since the 2012 EA (Employment Act) amendments and three years since the 2021 amendments. We still do not even have protection on prevention of sexual harassment at the workplace. Kelantan workers have better rights and benefits than Sarawak. Workers in Sarawak have been losing out every day,” Lo asserted. — DayakDaily
