Malaysia’s Low Rate of Workplace Harm Commended by International Survey

A Global Comparison

Malaysia has been commended for having a low rate of workplace harm, with only 7% of the current workforce having experienced harm at work in the last two years. This is the lowest rate among Southeast Asian neighbours, according to an international survey commissioned by a global safety charity.

The world risk poll by Lloyd’s Register Foundation, released late last month, found that Malaysia’s figure was “way below the global average of 18%”. The global average is based on nearly 147,000 interviews conducted by global analytics firm Gallup in 142 countries and territories throughout 2023.

Regional Comparison

The Philippines had the highest percentage among Southeast Asian countries, with 34% of the workforce having experienced harm at work in the last two years. The figures for other Asean members were:

* Laos: 8%
* Singapore and Myanmar: 10%
* Thailand: 12%
* Indonesia: 19%
* Vietnam: 16%

No figures were provided for Brunei and Timor-Leste.

Occupational Safety and Health Training

Malaysia was also among the highest in Southeast Asian nations to provide training in occupational safety and health, critical components in safeguarding the wellbeing of workers across industries. According to the study, 31% of those surveyed in Malaysia received such training.

Singapore came up tops after recording 39%, while Myanmar had the lowest percentage with 12%. The authors said that Malaysia scored “pretty close” to the global average, with less than a third (31%) of its workforce having been trained in the last two years, adding, “There is significant opportunity to improve.”

Conclusion

Malaysia’s low rate of workplace harm and high percentage of occupational safety and health training are commendable achievements. However, there is still room for improvement, particularly in terms of providing training to a larger proportion of the workforce.

As the global average of 18% of the current workforce having experienced serious harm at work in the past two years highlights, there is a significant opportunity to improve workplace safety and wellbeing globally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the global average of workplace harm?
A: The global average is 18%, based on nearly 147,000 interviews conducted by global analytics firm Gallup in 142 countries and territories throughout 2023.

Q: Which Southeast Asian country had the highest percentage of workplace harm?
A: The Philippines had the highest percentage, with 34% of the workforce having experienced harm at work in the last two years.

Q: Which Southeast Asian country provided the highest percentage of occupational safety and health training?
A: Singapore provided the highest percentage, with 39% of those surveyed receiving such training.

Q: What is the takeaway from the survey?
A: The survey highlights the importance of prioritizing workplace safety and wellbeing, and the need for continued improvement and investment in occupational safety and health training.