THE Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing (FMM) has proposed that the government formulate a National Action Plan on Labour Quarters to address the shortage of proper accommodation for workers, especially in key industrial areas and logistics hubs across the country.
FMM President Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai proposed the creation of a National Action Plan on Labour Quarters, to be jointly implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, the Ministry of Human Resources, and local authorities.
“The current shortfall in Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ) and Temporary Labour Quarters (TLQ) has impacted both worker welfare and employer compliance with Act 446, which governs minimum standards of housing and amenities,” Bernama cited Soh saying in a statement.
Soh highlighted that employers frequently face delays in securing development approvals due to bureaucratic red tape, making it challenging to provide workers with safe and regulated living conditions.
To address this, FMM proposed three key measures: the fast-tracking of CLQ and TLQ development approvals, targeted incentives for employers and developers to construct or retrofit suitable accommodation, and public-private partnership (PPP) models aligned with local development priorities.
“These measures are essential to ensure that worker housing evolves in tandem with Malaysia’s industrial growth,” he said.
On broader labour policy, the FMM welcomed recent reforms, pointing to a drop in the unemployment rate to 3.1 per cent and a rise in female labour force participation to 56.2 per cent as evidence of successful government intervention.
Soh also praised the introduction of the MADANI Workers’ Card, which provides discounts on essential goods and services, describing it as “a significant step forward in integrating social protection into worker benefits.”
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in his speech at the 2025 National Labour Day celebration at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil yesterday, announced that one million union members will benefit from discounts of up to 30 per cent at over 100 companies participating in the MADANI Workers’ Card initiative.
“This is in appreciation of workers for their hard work in carrying out their duties and trust,” said Anwar.
Reflecting on the country’s labour movement history, Soh also welcomed the revival of the “Solidariti Perjuangan” song, penned by Human Resources Minister Steven Sim. He said the anthem serves as a timely reminder of the vital role workers play in Malaysia’s nation-building journey. - May 2, 2025
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