Malaysia Launches Labour Day 2026 Celebrations with Focus on Workers’ Welfare and Inclusion

SUBANG:  Ramanan Ramakrishnan today officially launched the National Labour Day 2026 celebration through a discourse and engagement programme themed “Tracing May 1, 2026: KESUMA Workers, the Nation’s Backbone.”

Organised by the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), the programme serves as a strategic platform to engage the public, particularly workers and employers, while strengthening tripartite relations between the government, employers, and employees. It also functions as a space for dialogue to better understand the real needs of workers and ensure their voices are considered in national policymaking.

In his speech, Ramanan stressed that workers’ well-being is not merely a government agenda, but a moral responsibility in ensuring the nation’s sustained prosperity. He added that in line with the Malaysia MADANI aspiration, the government remains committed to ensuring inclusive economic growth while safeguarding social justice and the welfare of the people.

“Workers are the backbone of the nation’s progress, and their voices must continue to be heard, valued, and prioritised,” he said.

Malaysia currently records a labour force of 17.28 million, with an unemployment rate of around three per cent, reflecting the country’s strong economic fundamentals. Nevertheless, the government continues to take proactive measures to address emerging challenges, including technological advancements, the digital economy, and the evolving global employment landscape.

Among the key initiatives highlighted are the proposed Gig Workers Act 2025 (Act 872), which is expected to provide protection to more than 1.64 million gig workers, as well as the implementation of the Commuter Scheme under PERKESO to ensure social protection for nearly 400,000 Malaysians commuting to Singapore for work. The government is also refining proposals to enhance protections for women workers, including maternity leave assistance.

As part of the Labour Day 2026 celebrations, a series of programmes have been lined up, including the Mega Labour Day Gathering on May 1, 2026 at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil, and the Mega Career and Skills Carnival, which will run for three days from May 1 to 3 at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil grounds.

Other events include World Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Day, the KESUMA Merdeka 118 Vertical Challenge, a Labour Day pantun competition, an Islamic affairs forum in Sabah, and the Labour Day Run & Ride programme in Putrajaya.

The “Tracing May 1, 2026” programme will also be held as a roadshow across several key locations, including Sungai Buloh, Ipoh, Batu Pahat, Kuala Terengganu, Kota Samarahan, and Sandakan, carrying the message that the voice of workers is the voice of the nation.

KESUMA also expressed its appreciation to all parties involved, including the Department of Trade Union Affairs (JHEKS) and the Industrial Court of Malaysia (MPM), for their commitment in making the programme a success.

The Labour Day 2026 celebration is expected to serve as an important platform to strengthen awareness on the importance of workers’ welfare and well-being, in line with the theme “KESUMA Workers, the Nation’s Backbone,” which underscores the vital role of workers as the main driver of national development.