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The Malaysian Bar joined the international community yesterday in commemorating International Domestic Workers’ Day 2025, observed annually on 16 June to honour the invaluable contributions of domestic workers worldwide, and to spotlight the persistent challenges they continue to face.
This date marks the adoption of the International Labour Organization (“ILO”) Convention No 189 on Decent Work for Domestic Workers in 2011, a landmark achievement in the global recognition of domestic work as legitimate labour, deserving of fair, safe, and dignified working conditions.
In Malaysia, domestic workers — the majority of whom are women — continue to face systemic vulnerabilities, including exclusion from key labour protections under national legislation. Despite the essential nature of their work in supporting households, communities, and the broader economy, many remain unprotected, underpaid, and vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
In conjunction with the observance of International Domestic Workers’ Day, the Malaysian Bar calls for the full legal recognition and protection of domestic workers under Malaysian labour laws, ensuring that they enjoy equal rights and protections as all other categories of workers. The Malaysian Bar also calls for the ratification and implementation of ILO Convention No 189 and Recommendation No 201 by the Malaysian Government as a vital step toward safeguarding the rights and dignity of domestic workers.
Further, the Malaysian Bar urges stronger enforcement of existing laws and the establishment of effective mechanisms to prevent exploitation and abuse of domestic workers. It is equally important to ensure improved access to justice for domestic workers, allowing them to report violations and seek redress without fear or obstacles. Public awareness campaigns must also be actively conducted to challenge discriminatory attitudes and affirm the dignity and value of domestic work.
The Malaysian Bar also implores the Government to enact a dedicated law for domestic workers, recognising the unique nature of their work compared to the formal employment sector. The Government should standardise employment contracts and issue specific regulations for domestic work. These measures fall within the powers of the Minister of Human Resources and do not require parliamentary approval; therefore, they can be implemented without delay.
Additionally, the Malaysian Bar calls for the introduction of mechanisms that allow foreign domestic workers to change employers or employment sectors without undue restrictions. The Government should also regulate part-time employment arrangements involving domestic workers to prevent misuse and exploitation. At present, many domestic workers are sent to multiple households as part-time cleaners, often without sufficient protection. Such arrangements leave workers exposed to risks and, as such, ought to be urgently addressed through clear and enforceable regulations.
The Malaysian Bar remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rule of law and human rights, and will continue to advocate for the fair and just treatment of all workers, particularly those whose labour often remains hidden behind closed doors.
On International Domestic Workers’ Day, let us recommit to building a future in which all domestic workers are respected, protected, and empowered.
Mohamad Ezri b Abdul Wahab
President
Malaysian Bar
17 June 2025