KUCHING: The Ministry of Human Resource is encouraging Sabah and Sarawak to consider amending their respective labour ordinances to incorporate the revised maternity and paternity leave provisions.
Federal Deputy Minister of Human Resource, Mustapha Sakmud pointed out that employees in both states are currently subject to 60 days of maternity leave and three days of paternity leave.
“The federal government has introduced expanded benefits for employees through the recently implemented Employment (Amendment) Act 2022, which includes 98 days of maternity leave and seven days of paternity leave.
“Therefore, we hope that the state governments of Sabah and Sarawak will agree to amend their labour ordinances accordingly,” he stated.
Mustapha made these comments during the closing ceremony of the Labour Law Enforcement Convention here on today (July 6).
Earlier, he had a positive discussion on the matter with Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala during a courtesy call.
“Datuk Gerawat responded positively to the suggestion. We hope that the state government will consider this matter for the benefit of employees in Sarawak.”
Regarding the convention, he commended the Sarawak Labour Department for organising the event, highlighting its role in facilitating idea-sharing and fostering closer relationships among officers.
He stressed the importance of equipping and empowering labour law enforcement officers with the necessary capacity, knowledge and skills in various aspects of labour law enforcement, labour issue management and human resources.
“The department’s officers are the backbone and machinery of labour law enforcement. Therefore, it is crucial for them to be well-prepared and knowledgeable in their roles.”
