Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim ordered Malaysian government agencies to submit detailed reports on newly announced workers’ measures within 2 weeks, after unveiling labour protection packages at Labour Day 2026 in Bukit Jalil on May 1. He said the reports must reach ministers within 2 weeks and the Cabinet within 3 weeks to prevent delays, adding: “I do not want a repeat of past practices where announcements are made, but implementation takes six months, a year or even longer. Today, the announcement is made; within two weeks the report must be on the minister’s desk, and must be presented for Cabinet consideration within three weeks.” [1]
About 15,000 workers from the public and private sectors attended the event at Unifi Arena, where the 2026 Labour Day theme was “Pekerja Madani Kesuma Bangsa”. [1]
Anwar also announced a Post-Maternity Leave Allowance that will provide financial assistance for up to 30 days of additional leave after the existing 98-day maternity leave period. [1]
He unveiled the Progressive Acceleration for Capability and Employment, or PACE, Economic Resilience Package, valued at more than RM710 million to support human capital development and labour market stability. The package includes RM580 million through the Social Security Organisation to support unemployed workers under the Employment Insurance System. [1]
Another RM100 million is set aside under the HRD Yakin Madani programme for training and job placement schemes, while RM20 million will go to the Skills Development Fund Corporation for gig economy worker training. TalentCorp will get RM10 million for the Industry Training Matching Grant to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups. [1]
Anwar also proposed amendments to the Self-Employment Social Security Act 2017 to widen social protection to Malaysians working overseas, starting with cross-border commuters between Malaysia and Singapore. [1]
The reporting deadline falls on May 15, while the Cabinet is due to review the reports by May 22. [1]
