On September 25, 2018, we received an international appeal initiated by the Socialist Party of Malaysia (PSM) on behalf of the Public Hospital Support Workers Union.

Already registered, the latter had to obtain the support of more than half of the employees of his sector to be legally recognized and able to intervene in the negotiation of collective agreements.

International aid was used to finance travel to the various hospitals concerned, which were essential for recruiting new members.

ESSF sent 500 euros to the union on 11 October 2018.

Pierre Rousset
ESSF

PSM letter on this first union success

With the help of international solidarity, an important step for the Public Hospital Support Workers Union to move forward

On behalf of the Public Hospital Support Workers Union, the Socialist Party of Malaysia (PSM) launched an international appeal for fund contributions for their union activities. Today, cleaning workers employed by NS Medik (sub-contractor of cleaning services) manged to get more than 50% of votes supporting the union.

Dear friends and comrades,

We would like to express our appreciation to all of you who have contributed to the fund for Public Hospital Support Workers Union Malaysia.

To update you on the latest development, balloting was conducted for hospitals in the northern region (Perak, Penang, Kedah dan Perlis) among workers employed by the contractors for support services in government hospitals in these states. Despite of all kinds of threats and obstacles, cleaning workers employed by NS Medik (sub-contractor of cleaning services) manged to get more than 50% of votes supporting the union, hence the union is allowed to file for recognition and enter collective bargaining with the employer. This is an important step for the Public Hospital Support Workers Union to move forward.

Also on today, 4 December 2018, the Public Hospital Support Workers Union is awarded with SUARAM Human Rights Award, an annual award given out by SUARAM, the leading human rights organization in Malaysia, to recognize the contribution of groups or communities in enhancing human rights in Malaysia.

We once again thank to everyone who have supported the Public Hospital Support Workers Union.

In solidarity,

Choo Chon Kai
PSM

December 4, 2018

International Bureau
Socialist Party of Malaysia / Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM)