[Gevena, 15th June 2023]: Syukri Sudari, Vice President of MEF, the esteemed representative of the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF), delivered an influential speech on behalf of President Datuk Dr Syed Hussain during the plenary sitting of the 111th International Labour Organization (ILO) Conference held in Geneva. Syukri Sudari emphasized MEF's commitment to promoting women's leadership, enhancing skills development, advocating for social protection, addressing retirement support issues, supporting refugees' access to work opportunities, and collaborating with the ILO under the Safe and Fair Programme.
During his address, Syukri Sudari highlighted MEF's recent efforts in organizing the National Summit on Women, which aimed to empower and recognize women's remarkable achievements in leadership roles in Malaysia. The summit provided a platform to celebrate Malaysian women contributions and foster an inclusive environment for their further growth and success.
Furthermore, Syukri Sudari emphasized Malaysia's determination to increase the number of workers equipped with relevant skills. By aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Malaysia aspires to achieve a workforce that possesses the necessary skills to thrive in the global landscape by 2030.
MEF voiced its support for inclusive social protection schemes, recognizing the importance of safeguarding workers' welfare and rights. Additionally, Syukri Sudari emphasized the necessity of financial literacy training for workers to be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed financial decisions and secure their financial future.
In response to the pressing issue of post-retirement support, MEF called for an extension of Social Security coverage to retirees, aiming to address the challenges faced by this vulnerable group. The organization highlighted the importance of creating comprehensive systems that ensure retirees receive the necessary support and care they deserve.
MEF also emphasized its partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to advocate for refugees' legal access to work opportunities. Recognizing the potential and talents of refugees, MEF seeks to create an inclusive society that provides them with the means to contribute to the workforce and society as a whole.
Furthermore, MEF proudly announced its collaboration with the ILO Safe and Fair Programme, aimed at developing knowledge tools for its members. This partnership demonstrates MEF's commitment to promoting safe and fair labour practices, ensuring that the well-being and rights of workers are protected in all aspects of employment.
Syukri Sudari's speech at the ILO 111th International Labour Conference showcased MEF's dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable work environment. MEF's initiatives, such as the National Summit on Women, skills development programs, social protection advocacy, retirement support, refugee empowerment, and collaboration with the ILO Safe and Fair Programme, further reinforce its position to promote fair workers' rights and welfare in Malaysia.
MEF is represented by Vice Presidents Syukri Sudari, Farid Basir and Council member Peggy Chew Being Being at the 111th International Labour Conference held in Geneva, Switzerland.
The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) is the central organisation of private sector employers in Malaysia recognised nationally, regionally and internationally. Established in 1959, MEF is committed to promote the rights and welfare of employers, providing guidance on labour issues, and facilitating effective employer-employee relationships in Malaysia.
“For further information, please contact the MEF Secretariat at 03-7955 7778 or fax 03-7955-9008 or email
mef-hq@mef.org.my.
15 June 2023