Workers the driving force behind a greater Malaysia - Anwar

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has described Malaysian workers as the central force in shaping a stronger, more competitive nation, calling for unity, resilience and unwavering commitment across all sectors of society.

Delivering a special address at the 2025 National Labour Day celebration held at Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil today, Anwar emphasised the vital contributions of workers from all walks of life—whether in factories, public service, healthcare, education, law enforcement, or beyond.

“Every individual who works—whether in factories, government departments, clinics, schools, police stations or any sector—plays an important role in driving change and achieving national success,” he said.

Despite facing global headwinds, including political instability abroad and major geopolitical tensions, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in Malaysia’s ability to advance—provided that its people remain diligent and united.

“This country still faces various challenges. Our days are faced with major issues such as the crisis in Palestine and global uncertainties, including the arbitrary actions of great powers such as the United States,” he noted.

“However, we can still progress if everyone works diligently, sincerely and with full commitment. No matter which sector, workers who hold on to the values of sincerity and faith in the country will definitely contribute to the formation of a great nation.”

Anwar reaffirmed the MADANI government’s pledge to uplift the dignity of all workers and to ensure equitable treatment, regardless of race, background or religion.

“I and the government are committed to defending the fate of all workers, even though the majority are Malays, the fate of Chinese, Indian, Dayak and Kadazan-Dusun children cannot be marginalised... and would treat workers at various levels fairly right to the lowest ranks,” he said.

Urging Malaysians to reject divisive rhetoric, Anwar also cautioned against the corrosive impact of racial and political polarisation on national productivity and social cohesion.

“Every day we read news about racial disputes, this will not take us anywhere. On the contrary, understanding, unity and the spirit of togetherness between people of various races are the keys to taking the country towards greater progress,” he said.

To further support the workforce, Anwar launched two key initiatives during the event: the MADANI Workers Card and the MyFutureJobs mobile application, aimed at improving access to job opportunities and worker support mechanisms.

The 2025 National Labour Day celebration, themed ‘Pekerja Kesuma Bangsa’ — or Workers, the Pride of the Nation — brought together a diverse assembly of more than 10,000 individuals from across the public and private sectors to honour the backbone of Malaysia’s workforce.

Held at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil, the event was graced by key national leaders including Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, both Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, and Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, along with several other Cabinet ministers, were also in attendance.

Adding to the ceremony’s prestige were top civil service figures, including Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, ministry secretaries-general, and heads of government agencies. Among them was Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama).

A highlight of the event was Bernama being named recipient of the Best Media Award (Agency) in recognition of its coverage and commitment to labour and workforce issues. The honour was one of 13 awards presented during the celebration, spanning categories such as workers, employers, trade unions, media, and parade contingents.

For the first time, attendees were treated to a performance of the specially composed song Solidariti Perjuangan, sung by Human Resources Minister Steven Sim himself, as a tribute to the spirit and resilience of Malaysian workers.

The event served not only as a day of recognition and appreciation, but also as a rallying call for unity, inclusiveness, and shared responsibility in building a stronger and more equitable nation. - May 1, 2025