The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) today demanded that elected representatives commit to comprehensive reform of all social security schemes, as well as work towards improving social benefits for workers.

The umbrella body of Malaysian trade unions wants the next government to protect workers who are not only the backbone of the national economy but also form a large majority of the 10.28 million voters.

"They should not be the victims of corporate restructuring exercises, capitalist booms and busts cycles or technological advances," it said in a 'MTUC manifesto' posted on its website, with the expectation that election candidates will either respond to, or endorse the demands.

"In order to maximise social benefits, schemes under the Social Security Organisation (Socso) and Employees Provident Fund (EPF) should be merged," it said.

In addition to wanting the Socso Act and the EPF Act amended for greater efficiency, the MTUC wants workers' representatives to make up half of the EPF Board members.

'Voices stifled'

The MTUC further demanded low-interest housing loans for the lower income group and for the statutory rights of retrenched workers to be guaranteed.

Other demands specified by the MTUC are:

  • Review privatised projects that are inefficient

  • Five-day week and basic minimum salary of RM900

  • Speedier dispute resolution

  • Mandatory 90-day paid maternity leave

  • Childcare facilities at the workplace

  • Eliminate sexual harassment

    • In an immediate response, PJ Selatan Keadilan candidate, lawyer R. Sivarasa, endorsed the demands.

    He says workers' rights are often neglected due to corporate restructuring and repressive laws that prevent workers from getting organised.

    "Workers' voices are stifled and their bargaining power for better working condition and wages, especially for women, is greatly diminished," says Sivarasa.

    "Laws must be enacted to guarantee a reasonable minimum wage and protection for all workers in high-risk categories."

    'Weigh manifestos

    '

    Meanwhile, the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM), in its election message distributed to churches around the country, has urged Christians to "vote responsibly" come March 21.

    They are being advised to consider the capability of the candidates, including their moral integrity and leadership skills.

    "Pay attention to their past performance and their views on issues, especially those that have moral and ethical implications," the CFM executive committee said in a statement.

    Signed by CFM chairperson Rev Dr Prince Guneratnam and vice-chairpersons Bishop Anthony Selvanayagam, Bishop Voo Thien Fui and Kong Yeng Phooi, the message also asked Christians to assess carefully the manifestos of the various political parties.

    "(Consider) their stand on various issues related to citizens' rights, national unity, economic development, protection of the environment and welfare of the sick, disabled and poor," they said in the statement.

    CFM represents the Christian community in Malaysia and works closely with both governmental and non-governmental bodies.

    The statement says CFM hopes for a free and fair election without any "attempt by politicians to publicly misrepresent or miscast any particular religion, or subject any particular community to unfair and adverse publicity" in order to gain political mileage.