“The human resources ministry did not adequately listen and address the suggestions as well as significant complaints raised by Camu regarding Malaysian workers during V Sivakumar’s tenure as human resources minister,” it said in a statement.

Camu suggested deferring some of the proposed amendments until more holistic and comprehensive discussions are held with the group.

“If the bill is implemented, it could make Malaysian workers vulnerable to exploitation and threaten Malaysia’s economic development and well-being,” it said.

“Sim should reconsider the efforts made thus far and look towards a better future for Malaysian workers as the pulse and driving force of a more sustainable national economy.”

The group also hoped that Sim would focus on uplifting the dignity of Malaysian workers, regardless of their background and hoped his commitment to “stand with the workers” was not mere rhetoric.

On Oct 10, the Dewan Rakyat passed amendments to the Trade Union Act 1959, which would allow the formation of multiple trade unions in any establishment, trade, occupation or industry. At the moment, the amendments have yet to be tabled for discussion at the Dewan Negara.

Camu has consistently expressed its opposition to the amendments, but Sivakumar had said the amendments would help create trade unions that were “healthy, mature and progressive”.

Union leaders said multiple groups may split workers’ unity and result in people with inadequate experience and knowledge forming unions, thus making them ineffective and vulnerable.