SHAH ALAM, 1 May: Employees in the formal sector should be appreciated and not forgotten in enjoying the benefits, treasures and income fairly because they are important in the current economic development of a country.

They key aspect that is emphasised upon is the welfare of workers and this should be increased from time to time to improve the quality of life of workers and their families.

The Selangor Executive Councillor for Welfare, Rodziah Ismail, said that there are gaps in the implementation of workers’ welfare, including informal groups such as full-time homemakers who typically do not receive any salary.

This is further burdened by the high cost of living compared to the income earned, which will be further worsened after the implementation of the goods and services tax (GST) next year.

“If the normal transaction is valued at RM500, the GST would be RM30. If such transactions occur four times a month, then the GST charged is RM120 per month.

“Thus, the amount if GST paid for the whole year may be RM1440. It is a large amount,” she said in her May 1, 2014, Labour Day message.

He said that the recognition of the status of workers should be balanced with the seriousness to look for the existence of mechanisms and schemes that are sincere and transparent in preserving the welfare of workers.

“Workers should be recognised as partners in any effort and the development action plan of a country.

“It requires political will and determination that is based on value to make it a reality – not political power that is greedy and exploits workers for a narrow purpose that prioritises narrow agenda,” she said.