About Medical Certificates, Real Wages, and Productivity: News Roundup for May 2023
As we close out May and move into June, we round up the top HR-related news for the month.
Singapore Employers Must Accept All Official Medical Certificates
Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has emphasized that employers are legally obligated to accept all official medical certificates issued by registered medical practitioners under the Employment Act. The MOM's clarification aims to address instances where employers reject certain medical certificates and highlights the importance of trusting medical professionals' judgment when assessing employee medical conditions. This clarification aims to ensure fair treatment of employees and compliance with the law, emphasizing that employers should not question or disregard certified medical advice and must respect the medical leave entitlements of their employees.
Image credit: AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star
Malaysia to Take Action against Firms That Hired Stranded Migrant Workers
The Malaysian government has announced that companies found to have employed migrant workers then leaving them stranded will face legal consequences. The move comes as part of Malaysia's efforts to crack down on labour exploitation and protect the rights of migrant workers. The government has pledged to take action against employers who have hired these workers despite knowing their stranded status, and intends to impose strict penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment. This initiative highlights Malaysia's commitment to combating labour abuses and ensuring fair treatment of migrant workers within the country.
Real Wages in Japan Fall Most in 8 Years
Real wages in Japan for fiscal year 2022 experienced the sharpest decline in eight years as inflation took its toll. This decline in real wages, which accounts for inflation, reflects the challenges faced by Japanese workers who are grappling with rising prices that outpace their income growth. The data suggests a growing financial strain on households, which could impact consumer spending and the overall economy.
Image credit: Department of Statistics Malaysia
Labour Productivity Increases in Malaysia
According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, labour productivity in Malaysia saw an increase in four out of five key sectors during the first quarter of 2023, recording a 2.1% growth in value per hour worked. The sectors that experienced growth were manufacturing, services, construction, and agriculture. This rise in productivity indicates positive economic growth and efficiency in these industries. However, the mining sector showed a decline in productivity. The overall trend suggests that Malaysia's economy is performing well, with notable improvements in various sectors, which bodes well for the country's economic outlook.
Hong Kong Introduces Workplace Heatstroke Guidance
The Hong Kong government has implemented a new guidance and warning system to prevent heatstroke at workplaces amid the increasing frequency of heatwaves in Asia. The system provides guidelines for employers on managing heat-related risks, including monitoring the workplace temperature, implementing regular breaks, and encouraging employees to stay hydrated. It also includes a heat index warning system that categorizes the level of heat stress and suggests appropriate precautionary measures. The initiative aims to protect workers' health and safety during extreme heat conditions, promoting awareness and proactive measures to mitigate the risks of heat-related illnesses in the workplace.
Image credit: Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters
Opposition Wins Historic Thai Election
The Election Commission of Thailand has declared the MFP (Move Forward Party) as the winner of the recent election held on Sunday. The MFP, led by Pita Limjaroenrat secured the most number of seats, giving them a significant victory in the political landscape of Thailand as alliances are struck to form the next government. MFP's employment-related campaign promises include a minimum wage policy, boosting free trade, and getting rid of monopolies, among other reforms.
Learn how BrioHR can simplify HR for your business by getting a free demo here.
As we close out May and move into June, we round up the top HR-related news for the month.
Singapore Employers Must Accept All Official Medical Certificates
Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has emphasized that employers are legally obligated to accept all official medical certificates issued by registered medical practitioners under the Employment Act. The MOM’s clarification aims to address instances where employers reject certain medical certificates and highlights the importance of trusting medical professionals’ judgment when assessing employee medical conditions. This clarification aims to ensure fair treatment of employees and compliance with the law, emphasizing that employers should not question or disregard certified medical advice and must respect the medical leave entitlements of their employees.
Malaysia to Take Action against Firms That Hired Stranded Migrant Workers
The Malaysian government has announced that companies found to have employed migrant workers then leaving them stranded will face legal consequences. The move comes as part of Malaysia’s efforts to crack down on labour exploitation and protect the rights of migrant workers. The government has pledged to take action against employers who have hired these workers despite knowing their stranded status, and intends to impose strict penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment. This initiative highlights Malaysia’s commitment to combating labour abuses and ensuring fair treatment of migrant workers within the country.
Real Wages in Japan Fall Most in 8 Years
Real wages in Japan for fiscal year 2022 experienced the sharpest decline in eight years as inflation took its toll. This decline in real wages, which accounts for inflation, reflects the challenges faced by Japanese workers who are grappling with rising prices that outpace their income growth. The data suggests a growing financial strain on households, which could impact consumer spending and the overall economy.
Labour Productivity Increases in Malaysia
According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, labour productivity in Malaysia saw an increase in four out of five key sectors during the first quarter of 2023, recording a 2.1% growth in value per hour worked. The sectors that experienced growth were manufacturing, services, construction, and agriculture. This rise in productivity indicates positive economic growth and efficiency in these industries. However, the mining sector showed a decline in productivity. The overall trend suggests that Malaysia’s economy is performing well, with notable improvements in various sectors, which bodes well for the country’s economic outlook.
Hong Kong Introduces Workplace Heatstroke Guidance
The Hong Kong government has implemented a new guidance and warning system to prevent heatstroke at workplaces amid the increasing frequency of heatwaves in Asia. The system provides guidelines for employers on managing heat-related risks, including monitoring the workplace temperature, implementing regular breaks, and encouraging employees to stay hydrated. It also includes a heat index warning system that categorizes the level of heat stress and suggests appropriate precautionary measures. The initiative aims to protect workers’ health and safety during extreme heat conditions, promoting awareness and proactive measures to mitigate the risks of heat-related illnesses in the workplace.
Opposition Wins Historic Thai Election
The Election Commission of Thailand has declared the MFP (Move Forward Party) as the winner of the recent election held on Sunday. The MFP, led by Pita Limjaroenrat secured the most number of seats, giving them a significant victory in the political landscape of Thailand as alliances are struck to form the next government. MFP’s employment-related campaign promises include a minimum wage policy, boosting free trade, and getting rid of monopolies, among other reforms.
Learn how BrioHR can simplify HR for your business by getting a free demo here.
