Hari Pekerja
On 1 May, people in Malaysia take the time to remember the economic and social accomplishments of the labour movement. Also known as May Day, this public holiday is sometimes celebrated with groups organising parades, rallies or both, to promote and protect workers’ rights.
Labour Day, or Hari Pekerja, is a public holiday in Malaysia to celebrate the contributions of workers to national development and honours the struggles and achievements of workers, particularly in securing fair wages, better working conditions, and social protections.
Labor Day, is also called International Workers’ Day and May Day. It’s a worldwide holiday on May 1st but also falls on other days. Labour Day is held each year on 1st May. Labour Day is a national holiday for Malaysia.
May Day Public Holiday
Labour Day is a public holiday. It is a Holiday for the general population across Malaysia, and schools and most businesses are closed on this day. Labor Day is often used as a day to defend workers’ rights.
Labour Day or May Day is considered as a powerful reminder of the importance of workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions. Labour Day officially became a public holiday in Malaysia in 1972.
Please be informed that the most of the offices, business, colleges, and schools in Malaysia will be closed on Thursday, 1 May 2025, in conjunction with Labour Day.
Labour Day falls on the 1st of May and is a public holiday for all workers, in Malaysia, including Penang. Most shops, offices and factories are closed.
The Importance of Labour Day in Malaysia
1. Honouring the Contributions of Workers
Labour Day, celebrated on 1st May, is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of workers across all sectors. It recognizes the efforts of employees who drive Malaysia’s growth, from industrial workers to healthcare professionals, educators, public servants, and many more.
2. Advocating Workers’ Rights
The celebration highlights the ongoing struggle for fair wages, safe working conditions, reasonable working hours, and employee benefits. It serves as a reminder of the importance of labour laws and the progress made by trade unions in Malaysia.
3. Promoting Unity and Solidarity
Labour Day is a time when workers from different industries and backgrounds come together in solidarity. It promotes unity among the workforce and reinforces the shared goal of building a more equitable society.
4. Acknowledging the Role of Labour Movements
In Malaysia, Labour Day reflects the achievements of the local labour movement in pushing for better working conditions. The recognition of Labour Day as a public holiday in 1972 marked an important milestone in the nation’s labour history.
5. Encouraging Rest and Work-Life Balance
Labour Day offers a well-deserved break for workers. It’s a day for rest, reflection, and spending time with family and friends—promoting a healthy work-life balance that is crucial for overall well-being.
Why It Is Important to Celebrate Labour Day in Malaysia
- To Celebrate National Progress: Malaysia’s development owes much to its workforce. Celebrating Labour Day honours their role in building infrastructure, industries, services, and the economy.
- To Reflect on Challenges and Progress: It provides a moment to reflect on labour-related challenges—such as wage inequality, unemployment, and worker welfare—and to discuss solutions for improvement.
- To Inspire Future Generations: Celebrating Labour Day helps instill values of hard work, dignity, and perseverance among younger Malaysians, highlighting that every job matters.
- To Strengthen Social Justice: The celebration supports ongoing dialogue about improving workplace conditions and ensuring social justice for all employees, regardless of their sector or position.
🇲🇾 Labour Day (Hari Pekerja) – 1 May 2025
The national Labour Day celebration will take place at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, on 1 May 2025. Organized by the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), the event is expected to attract over 10,000 visitors and will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The theme for this year is “Pekerja Kesuma Bangsa”, which translates to “Workers Are the Noble Soul of the Nation”
