The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) has strengthened the trade union movement nationwide by increasing the allocation for the Trade Union Affairs Programme (PHEKS) to RM10 million this year.
This marks a significant rise compared to RM5.8 million allocated last year and RM2.6 million in 2023. The expanded funding is expected to benefit 788 registered trade unions representing over 1.04 million members across the country.
Human Resources Minister, Steven Sim Chee Keong said the allocation aims to encourage more workers to join unions and to help strengthen their organisational functions and development activities. He added that the funds can be applied through the Department of Trade Union Affairs and are open to all registered unions in Malaysia.
According to Sim, the allocation is not only intended to enhance union administrative structures but also to support educational, training, and digitalisation initiatives among union leaders and members. Each union may now apply for up to RM30,000 in assistance, compared to a lower ceiling previously.
For the northern zone covering Perlis, Kedah, Penang, and Perak, the government has approved 124 applications worth RM1.5 million under PHEKS. Overall, 551 applications amounting to RM7.15 million have been approved, while the remaining RM2.85 million will be channelled towards corporate social responsibility and outreach programmes.
Sim also revealed that union membership nationwide is projected to reach two million by the end of this year. He added that the introduction of the Kad Pekerja Madani, which offers up to 30 percent discounts at more than 200 business premises for union members, is expected to attract more workers to join the labour movement.
The official launch of the trade union gathering in Kangar brought together more than 400 union representatives from various states including Perlis, Kedah, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur.
The increased PHEKS allocation reflects the government’s strong commitment to empowering workers’ voices and ensuring that human capital development within the trade union sector progresses in tandem with the nation’s economic growth.
-HR HUB