Significant improvements in labour law compliance for 2023

KUCHING: The Sarawak Labour Department (JTK) recorded 4,964 new job placements, with inspections conducted on 5,857 employer premises across Sarawak.

JTK director Awang Raduan Awang Omar stated that 5,690 were scrutinised for compliance with the 2022 Minimum Wage Order, and assured that legal action was taken against non-compliant employers to ensure the wellbeing of workers.

“Throughout the year, JTK Sarawak handled 1,494 labour cases involving claims totalling RM10.5mil. Out of these, 1,340 cases were resolved, with a total order amounting to RM3,790,674.43.

“JTK Sarawak also collected fines totalling RM49,500 from 33 compound notices, out of a total of 37 notices with an aggregate value of RM58,500,” he said in a statement.

In terms of prosecution activities, 18 permits were issued, with 13 ongoing cases and 10 concluded cases resulting in a total conviction value of RM43,500.

Awang Raduan highlighted a 69.5 per cent reduction in violation notifications issued to employers compared to 2022, attributing this positive trend to consistent awareness programmes, educational activities, and labour lectures.

He also noted key initiatives, including the Outreach Programme in remote areas like Long Busang, Kapit, and Ba’Kelalan, Lawas, as well as awareness programmes in Simunjan and Asajaya districts.

The fourth consecutive year of the Labour Go-Rural Area Programme (L-GRAP) held in Pekan Song and Pekan Kapit was also a notable achievement in 2023.

Awang Raduan underscored JTK Sarawak’s supportive role in eradicating forced labor and child labour, aligning with the Malaysian government’s efforts. He expressed optimism about preserving and safeguarding workers’ rights and welfare in Sarawak.

Looking ahead to 2024, he assured that meticulously arranged plans and programmes would strengthen the enforcement of national labour laws. Private sector employers were urged to comply with labour-related laws, with stringent actions promised against those neglecting the welfare of their workers.

“Violations of the Sarawak Labour Ordinance (Chapter 76) may result in fines not exceeding RM10,000, imprisonment for up to a month, or both. Employers practicing forced labour or employing child labour could face imprisonment of up to 15 years and potential fines if found guilty,” he added.