Steven Sim, the Human Resources Minister, announced that the National Human Resource Policy Framework for 2024-2030 is set to be finalized and revealed in May. He highlighted the importance of addressing gaps in the current human resource policy through engagement with various stakeholders to develop a comprehensive framework.
During a press conference held after a town hall session on the framework in Putrajaya on Monday, Sim mentioned key issues being addressed include empowering women in the labour market to achieve a 60% female participation rate, the ageing society agenda, and strategies to tap into emerging job markets such as green, digital, and artificial intelligence (AI) industries.
Sim stated, “All of these may have gaps in the current policy documents, so we want to address or resolve them through this framework.”
The engagement session saw participation from over 1,000 stakeholders including representatives from the public sector, private sector, employers’ representatives, workers union representatives, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) advocating for youth and persons with disabilities.
Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad was also present at the event.
Sim emphasized that feedback from Malaysians was welcomed for the framework development, with submission channels available through ministry feedback portals from Monday until April 18.
He mentioned, “After April 18, the ministry will compile all findings and feedback for consideration. Suitable suggestions will be included in the National Human Resource Policy Framework.”
Various issues were raised by stakeholders during the engagement session, including calls from employer representatives for more competitive business costs and streamlined bureaucratic processes.
Healthcare sector representatives highlighted the need for improved employee benefits, higher salaries, and better workplace environments, while NGOs emphasized recognition of the care economy.
The ministry aims to address these concerns and develop a policy framework that meets the diverse needs of stakeholders in the Malaysian workforce.