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THE Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has urged a fundamental rethink of tripartism, advocating a transition from dialogue-driven engagement to results-focused collaboration among government, employers and workers as Malaysia navigates economic transformation and demographic change.
Its president, Datuk Seri Syed Hussain Syed Husman said the existing model must evolve into one grounded in high levels of trust, shared accountability and long-term national priorities.
“Labour Day should not merely be a symbolic celebration, but must serve as a strategic platform to assess progress and recalibrate approaches to secure the nation’s future,” he said in a statement issued in conjunction with Labour Day on May 1.
He noted that businesses are grappling with rising operating costs, the pressures of digital transformation and persistent talent shortages, making it imperative to view enterprise sustainability and quality job creation as mutually reinforcing goals.
Human capital, he said, remains the cornerstone of business resilience, productivity and innovation, prompting employers to prioritise upskilling and reskilling, workplace well-being, flexible work practices and talent retention strategies.
“However, investment in human capital must be supported by enabling policies, including alignment between education and industry, more efficient labour regulations and incentives for training and productivity enhancement.
“Employers do not see human resources as a cost, but as an asset to be developed. Business sustainability depends on the ability to invest effectively in the workforce,” he said.
At the same time, MEF proposed a renewed tripartite framework centred on evidence-based policymaking, sector-level negotiation mechanisms, faster policy execution and a balanced regulatory approach.
“Policies must be practical, timely and aligned with economic realities, and without this approach, business sustainability and job growth may be jeopardised.
“Constructive tripartism must move from dialogue to implementation.
“Policy must not only be well-intentioned but also practical, timely and aligned with economic realities because without it, we risk undermining business sustainability and job growth,” Harian Metro reported him saying.
While acknowledging the importance of strengthening worker protections, Syed Hussain cautioned against excessive regulation that could deter investment, limit job creation and weaken business competitiveness.
He emphasised the need for regulatory impact assessments prior to policy implementation, greater policy consistency, wage alignment with productivity and targeted support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
“A sustainable labour ecosystem requires a balance between worker welfare and business viability. The goal of tripartism is to achieve a balance that benefits the nation.
“Malaysia has the potential to demonstrate that a balanced tripartite model can ensure fairness for workers and sustainable growth for businesses,” he said. - May 3, 2026
