Trade union leaders advised to keep the good fight for members in sight

JOHOR BARU: Trade union leaders need to make sure that their actions are in line with the organisation’s objectives to really fight for the benefits of its members and employees, said Human Resource Minister Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem.

He reminded trade union leaders to always keep their attitude in check to refrain from letting certain quarters from taking advantage of them for their selfish agendas.

“Trade union leaders also play an important role to ensure that the employees in the country give their best contribution to the nation’s transformation plans,” he said.

His speech was read by his deputy secretary-general Mohd Sahar Darusman, who represented him during the closing ceremony of the Trade Union Training on Leadership and Raconteur seminar here recently.

He also urged union leaders to be more proactive, competitive and creative in facing times of economic transformation in the country to stay ahead of competition.

“As union leaders, they needed to change their negative perception to steer the employees to the right direction as the country’s economic direction also depended on how they carried out their roles,” he said.

Riot added that besides helping employees fight for their benefits, union leaders should also compliment the government in implementing workforce transformation and workplace transformation under the nation’s New Economic Model.

He also said that trade union leaders should also relay the government’s aspirations to their organisation’s employees to help the government realise its plans for a better future.

Riot added that trade unions should encourage their members to take part in upskilling and reskilling forums to remain competent.