Sarawak implements Labour Ordinance reforms after 20 years
In 2025, Sarawak introduces significant Labour Ordinance reforms aimed at modernizing employment standards, enhancing worker protections, and promoting better work-life balance. These changes mark a milestone after two decades of legislative stability, reflecting Sarawak’s commitment to aligning its labour laws with contemporary workforce needs and ensuring fair treatment for all employees.
🗓️ Effective: October 2025
Key Provisions
- Introduction of 7-day paternity leave: Eligible employees can now take a 7-day paid paternity leave to support their families during the birth of a child.
- Extended maternity leave: Maternity leave has been increased to up to 98 days, providing better support for working mothers.
- Reduction in weekly working hours: The maximum weekly working hours have been reduced to promote healthier work-life balance and prevent overwork.
- Enhanced protections for contract workers: Contract workers now enjoy stronger legal protections to ensure fair treatment and job security.
- Expanded occupational health and safety rights: All employees benefit from broader rights and responsibilities to maintain safer workplaces.
- Reforms effective from October 2025: These updates are set to be implemented nationwide, marking a significant step forward in Sarawak’s labour policies.
Summary of the Reform
In a landmark move, Sarawak has implemented comprehensive Labour Ordinance reforms after 20 years, aiming to modernize employment standards and improve worker welfare. The reforms introduce several key measures, including a new 7-day paternity leave policy, extended maternity leave up to 98 days, and a reduction in the maximum weekly working hours to foster better work-life balance. Additionally, the reforms strengthen protections for contract workers and expand occupational health and safety rights, ensuring a safer and fairer working environment for all employees. These changes are set to take effect from October 2025, reflecting Sarawak’s commitment to aligning its labour laws with contemporary workforce needs.
The update is part of Sarawak’s broader effort to enhance labour standards, support family life, and promote sustainable employment practices. Employers and employees alike should prepare for these changes to ensure compliance and maximize the benefits of the new policies.
Who This Affects
- Employers: Need to review and update employment contracts, policies, and HR procedures to comply with new regulations.
- Employees: Benefit from improved leave entitlements and workplace protections.
- Legal & HR Professionals: Must stay informed about legal changes to advise and implement necessary adjustments.
- Contract Workers: Receive enhanced protections and rights under the new reforms.
- Occupational Safety & Health Officers: Will see expanded rights and responsibilities to ensure safer workplaces.
What Employers Should Do Now
- Review current employment policies and update them to reflect the new Labour Ordinance reforms.
- Train HR and management teams on the new leave entitlements and worker protections.
- Communicate changes clearly to all staff, emphasizing benefits and compliance requirements.
- Assess and adjust work schedules to align with the reduced maximum weekly working hours.
- Ensure occupational health and safety protocols are up-to-date and compliant with expanded rights.
- Consult legal experts or employment law specialists to facilitate smooth implementation of the reforms.
Source
For more details on the Labour Ordinance reforms in Sarawak, visit the official government publication at Sarawak Government Official Website.
Written by NNRoad