M'SIA APPRECIATES WORKERS' CONTRIBUTION TO NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 (Bernama) -- Human Resource Minister Dr
S. Subramaniam said the Malaysian government appreciated the contribution of
workers to the nation's development.

He said that was why the theme, "Kerana Mu Malaysia Maju" (Because of You,
Malaysia Progresses", was chosen for this year's Workers Day celebration.

"The theme recognises the services and sacrifices made by all Malaysians,
especially workers, in helping to realise the national development goals," he
said in his message in conjunction with the Workers Day 2009 celebration to be
held Friday.

He said although Malaysia was experiencing the effects of the global
economic crisis, these effects could be minimised due to the good cooperation
and understanding between the government, employers and workers.

Dr Subramaniam said this was important in order to preserve industrial
harmony, which would not only steer the country to greater economic achievements
but also generate more employment opportunities for the people.


"This is in line with the ministry's decent work agenda," he said.

Dr Subramaniam hoped that employers would give preference to locals to fill
up the job vacancies available, while workers needed to enhance skills and
efficiency for higher productivity.

"Employees and employers are partners in an organisation, with both
contributing to national development," he said.

He also urged employees and employers to take precautionary measures in
light of the swine flu outbreak although Malaysia has not been affected.

There are 11 million Malaysians working in the country and 1.9 million
registered foreign workers.

-- BERNAMA