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Work Hard, Play Fair: 2024 Amendments to Sabah Labour Ordinance

Author

Listed:
  • Muhammad Izwan Ikhsan

    (Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sabah Branch, Kota Kinabalu Campus, Malaysia)

  • Ku Mohd Amir Aizat Ku Yusof

    (Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sabah Branch, Kota Kinabalu Campus, Malaysia)

  • Rafidah@Malissa Salleh

    (Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sabah Branch, Kota Kinabalu Campus, Malaysia)

  • Hershan@Ray Herman.

    (Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sabah Branch, Kota Kinabalu Campus, Malaysia)

  • Lenny James Matah

    (Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sabah Branch, Kota Kinabalu Campus, Malaysia)

Abstract

On October 14, 2024, the Malaysian Dewan Rakyat passed amendments to the Sabah Labour Ordinance, which were subsequently approved by Dewan Negara on December 2, 2024. The amendments, which were last amended in 2005, include significant changes such as lowering weekly working hours to 45, increasing maternity leave to 98 days, introducing seven days of paternity leave, and allowing for flexible work arrangements. Penalties for violations have also been raised from RM10,000 to RM50,000. This study uses doctrinal methodology to analyse the legal provisions of the Sabah Labour Ordinance, supported by pertinent cases from Lexis Nexis, CLJ, and eLaw, as well as existing literature, and assessing the amendment's compliance with international labour standards. The findings suggest that the change is a vital step to protect workers' rights and dignity, guaranteeing that Sabah's labour laws continue to be progressive and adaptable to the needs of the modern workplace. The amendment demonstrates a dedication to creating a just and equitable workplace by tackling important issues like gender equality and work-life balance.

Suggested Citation

  • Muhammad Izwan Ikhsan & Ku Mohd Amir Aizat Ku Yusof & Rafidah@Malissa Salleh & Hershan@Ray Herman. & Lenny James Matah, 2025. "Work Hard, Play Fair: 2024 Amendments to Sabah Labour Ordinance," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(23), pages 1-14, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:i:23:p:1-14
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    References listed on IDEAS

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