New HR minister must address worker shortage ASAP: employers’ group

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Employee Federation (MEF) has welcomed the appointment of Human Resource Minister V. Sivakumar to the cabinet and called for urgent solutions to the ongoing labour shortage.

MEF president Datuk Syed Hussain Syed Husman said the new minister must listen to employers and take a consultative approach.

“MEF is confident that Sivakumar will always consult all the stakeholders and strengthen existing tripartite institutions such as the National Labour Advisory Council, National Minimum Wages Council and Skills Development Council.

“The issues surrounding shortage of workers needs to be addressed urgently,” Syed Hussain said in a statement.

Commenting on the ministerial line-up announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last night, MEF said it is a good blend of experienced and new leaders.

“MEF hopes that the new cabinet members will all be hard working and always feel for the rakyat, businesses and the nation.

“It is important for the cabinet members to always listen to the views and needs of the stakeholders and be sensitive to what all stakeholders are saying. Ministers should always treat all issues with urgency and be action-oriented.”

Syed Hussain also added MEF trusted that Anwar had taken into account all the required qualities when appointing his cabinet members.

He said MEF would work with the new cabinet to ensure that the rakyat’s well-being and the nation are safeguarded.

The employers’ group also welcomed the establishment of the Economic Ministry headed by Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli.

“It is high time that the nation focuses on expanding the economic cake so that the rakyat, employees and businesses will all benefit.”

MEF also expressed hope that the special task force to facilitate business, Pemudah, under the purview of the newly appointed International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz will further introduce new and improved business processes to facilitate the private sector. –  The Vibes, December 3, 2022