The Malaysian Trade Union Congress (MTUC) operates as a federation of trade unions, officially registered under the Societies Act, 1955. Established as the oldest National Centre representing Malaysian workers, the affiliated unions within the MTUC collectively account for approximately 500,000 members.

**Historical Background**

The inception of the MTUC transpired during a tumultuous period marked by the declaration of the First Emergency against insurgent communist activities. At this pivotal juncture, laborers lacked organized representation to safeguard their interests and articulate their concerns. A select group of union leaders who espoused the principles of free democratic trade unionism convened a conference of trade union delegates on February 27th and 28th, 1949.

**Their Functions**

The MTUC assumes several core responsibilities:

a. It endeavors to advance the interests of its affiliated organizations, improve the economic and social well-being of workers, and extend assistance to them.

b. It strives to advocate policies aimed at ensuring full employment, establishing a minimum wage, enforcing a legal maximum working week of 44 hours, and enhancing training centers and facilities for workers.

c. The MTUC advocates for legislated Social Security measures encompassing protection against sickness, unemployment, old age, injury, invalidity, and retirement benefits. Additionally, it champions the promotion of high standards of health, hygiene, and welfare within all places of employment. It vigorously seeks adequate compensation for workers afflicted by accidents and diseases.

**Representation in Labor Matters**

Recognized by the Government as the representative of workers in Malaysia, the MTUC plays a crucial role in shaping labor laws through consultations with the National Joint Labor Advisory Council. It also represents labor at the International Labour Organisation Conferences and Meetings.

**Achievements and Activities**

While the MTUC boasts numerous successes in advocating for workers’ rights, formidable challenges remain. One of its primary objectives is to bring about essential changes to certain restrictive provisions in the Trade Union Act, the Industrial Relations Act, and the Employment Act.

The MTUC actively participates in various capacities, such as helping unions gain recognition, mediating in inter-union disputes, facilitating union negotiations, garnering support for union initiatives, offering administrative support to unions, resolving problems, furnishing critical information for collective bargaining, organizing workers, and enhancing efficiency, safety, and productivity.

**Role on the International Stage**

Due to its international engagement, the MTUC has the capacity to send union leaders for overseas courses, seminars, and conferences, bolstering unions and fostering international cooperation. It has successfully hosted numerous international seminars and conferences, with many of its leaders assuming active roles in global labor affairs. The MTUC President sits on the governing board of the International Labour Organization (ILO), exemplifying the organization’s esteemed international standing.

**Programs and Initiatives**

The MTUC is diligently pursuing the following programs:

a. Advocacy for a minimum wage law.
b. Championing a five-day workweek.
c. Pushing for an increase in the rate of EPF contribution and SOCSO benefits.
d. Advocating for amendments to existing labor laws, including the Employment Act, Trade Union Act, and Industrial Relations Act.
e. Encouraging the formation of larger unions by workers from related trades, overcoming current restrictions.
f. Organizing a significant number of unorganized workers, including those in Free Trade Zone Areas.
g. Addressing the challenges posed by the influx of guest workers.
h. Implementing retraining programs for retrenched workers and facilitating their reemployment.

The Malaysian trade union movement has transcended its traditional role, which predominantly centered on addressing basic labor issues. Today, it actively participates in the economic development of the country, with the MTUC’s activities oriented toward promoting equality, enhancing workers’ living standards, and creating safer and better working environments.

Malaysian Trade Union Congress (MTUC)