THE Human Resources Ministry today said it was not required to obtain the agreement of the Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) or the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) to amend the Industrial Relations Act 1967 (Act 177).

In a statement today, it said the International Labour Organisation Convention No. 144 (C144) on Tripartite Consultation required only that the government had consultation with the employer and employee representatives.

There was no need to seek agreement as MTUC and MEF had claimed, it said.

“The ministry is holding consultations not only with MTUC and MEF but also other stakeholders including non-government organisations on other matters besides ILO activities,” it said.

“The ministry wishes to assure all parties including workers that the amendment to the act  is a holistic amendment to ensure the act leads to the compliance of international labour standards.  

“This is in line with Pakatan Harapan government’s pledge to improve protection for workers while maintaining the competitiveness of employers,” it said. – Bernama, October 20, 2019.