FOI Law, Ombudsman Boost Transparency, Workers’ Rights - Azalina

KUALA LUMPUR, May 1 (Bernama) -- The proposed Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and the establishment of a Malaysian Ombudsman, expected to be tabled at the next Parliamentary sitting, will enhance transparency, accountability and access to justice for workers.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the FOI law would strengthen protection for workers by improving access to information related to labour rights and policies.

She added that the Ombudsman would serve as an independent channel for complaints on administrative misconduct, while ensuring a stronger voice and protection for workers.

“The government has also implemented various measures that benefit workers, including expanding access to justice through the Legal Aid and Public Defence Act 2026.

“This includes raising the income eligibility threshold for legal aid to RM50,000, as well as strengthening the Second Chance Policy through the Fastrack initiative to expedite the discharge of bankruptcy status for vulnerable groups,” she said in a statement today.

She said free mediation services for contract disputes involving claims of RM250,000 and below are also provided to enable faster and more cost-effective resolution without going through the courts, ensuring workers, particularly those in lower income groups, have access to legal redress.

In conjunction with Workers’ Day 2026, themed ‘Pekerja MADANI Kesuma Bangsa’, she expressed appreciation to all workers who form the backbone of national development.

“Today is not merely a celebration of workers’ contributions, but a manifestation of the MADANI Government’s commitment to building a more just and inclusive system, where every worker is protected, valued and given equal opportunities in line with the Malaysia MADANI aspirations,” she said.

Meanwhile, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, in a Facebook post, also conveyed his appreciation and gratitude to workers across both the public and private sectors for their contributions in driving the nation’s progress.

He also expressed appreciation for the dedication and commitment of personnel under the Works Ministry and its agencies, particularly those directly involved in national infrastructure development.

“Every road built, every bridge connecting communities and every project completed is the result of your hard work.

“Let us continue to strengthen our unity, enhance productivity and elevate the dignity of the nation’s workforce to greater heights,” he said.

--BERNAMA