Daily HR News 17.1.2025

1. Historic win for OKU rights

On January 16, 2025, the Malaysian High Court ruled in favor of Ch'ng B'ao Zhong, a 32-year-old counsellor with autism spectrum disorder, who was denied a permanent public sector position due to his disability. Justice Quay Chew Soon's decision underscores the importance of equality and non-discrimination under Article 8(1) of the Federal Constitution.

Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/family/2025/01/17/historic-win-for-oku-rights

2. Industrial Court resolves nearly 87% of dismissal cases, says Stats Dept

Between 2019 and 2023, Malaysia's Industrial Court resolved 86.94% of dismissal cases, according to Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Mohd Uzir Mahidin. A study analyzing 53,024 cases revealed that non-compliance with awards and collective agreements constituted 9.74% of cases. Selangor led in case settlements with 47.61%, followed by Kuala Lumpur at 17.82%.

Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/01/17/industrial-court-resolves-nearly-87-of-dismissal-cases-says-stats-dept

3. Businesses in Malaysia brace for impact with minimum wage hike on Feb 1

Effective February 1, 2025, Malaysia will raise its national minimum wage from RM1,500 to RM1,700. This increase impacts sectors employing numerous foreign workers, such as food courts, coffee shops, and vegetable farms. Business owners express concerns over heightened operational costs and potential mandatory Employees Provident Fund (EPF) contributions for foreign employees, which could further strain finances.

Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/01/17/businesses-brace-for-impact-with-minimum-wage-hike-on-feb-1