The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) issued a statement on June 10 urging balanced and phased labour market reforms guided by industry realities to maintain business competitiveness, especially for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), while prioritizing worker welfare [1, 2, 3]. MEF emphasized that a stable, flexible, and investment-friendly labour ecosystem forms a crucial foundation for sustained national economic growth [1, 2, 3].
MEF praised Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan for leading the Malaysian delegation at the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva. The minister highlighted a strategic agenda focusing on the future of work, including technological transformation, artificial intelligence, and changes in the global labour market structure [1, 2, 3]. MEF president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said, "A balanced approach between technological advancement, worker protection, and industrial competitiveness is key to a sustainable labour ecosystem" [2].
The federation expressed strong support for the Malaysian government's labour reforms, including the 24-Hour Lindung Scheme that expands social protection and the 2025 Gig Workers Act establishing a framework to protect gig workers [1, 2, 3]. MEF welcomed Malaysia's cooperation with international bodies such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), International Organisation of Employers (IOE), and International Social Security Association (ISSA) as part of efforts to strengthen social dialogue [3].
The federation reiterated its commitment to closely collaborate with the government, the Human Resources Ministry, trade unions, and other stakeholders to build a progressive, inclusive, and globally competitive employment ecosystem [1, 2, 3]. Human Resources Minister Ramanan stressed the human-centred growth principle that balances technological innovation, worker protection, business competitiveness, and the national economy [3].
MEF’s statement today marks continued efforts to ensure labour reforms reflect on-the-ground industry conditions while advancing worker welfare. Malaysia’s active participation in the 114th ILC in Geneva reflects its commitment to shaping the future of global work [1, 2, 3].
