We, the undersigned 107 organizations, groups and networks are disturbed that the Malaysian government has proceeded to table, and get it passed speedily on 6/10/2011 at the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representative) the Employment (Amendment) Bill 2011 despite protests from workers, trade unions and civil society. The proposed changes to the Employment Act would be most detrimental to worker rights, trade unions and the existing just direct 2-party employment relationship between worker and end-user (the principal). Malaysia’s action goes contrary to justice.

Human rights defender Mr Charles Hector Fernandez is facing trial on 28-29 June 2011 for allegedly defaming Japanese-owned company Asahi Kosei (M) Shd. Bhd in Selangor, Malaysia. As the trial date is nearing, the Court has handed down a decision dated 11 April 2011 which appears to have concluded that that the defendant is guilty. Charles Hector Fernandez is a well-known human rights defender and lawyer who has represented workers and migrants for many years.

According to press statements issued by the Human Rights and Development Foundation (HRDF), Mr. Charlee Diyo, a 33 year old migrant worker from Myanmar, had a work related accident and continues to suffer from occupational injuries which caused severe damage to his intestines. After an operation, his intestines remain outside of his body. He also has a broken pelvis that is causing him intense pain as his treatment continues in the Police General Hospital in Bangkok.