By Sim YH
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, 29 OCT – The ratification or ratification of International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention 187 is in line with Vision 2035 where by prioritizing occupational safety and health, the ratification directly supports the main pillars of Vision 2035.
The emphasis was made by the Chief Executive Officer of the National Safety, Health and Environment Authority (SHENA), Haji Muhsin bin Haji Ahmad in his opening speech at the Cooperation Workshop between SHENA and the ILO to strengthen occupational safety and health standards in Brunei Darussalam which took place at the Radisson Hotel , today.
He stated, “First, the goal is to achieve a high quality of life for all citizens through the provision of a safe and healthy work environment. Second, foster a sustainable and resilient economy by increasing productivity and reducing the economic burden due to workplace accidents and illnesses. Finally, this endorsement supports the development of a just and equitable society by protecting and well-being of workers.”
He further stated that cooperation in building a healthy and safe workplace can increase productivity and efficiency as well as Brunei Darussalam’s reputation in development and growth while showing social commitment to protect the basic welfare of workers as a priority.
Haji Muhsin further stated that in realizing the orderly implementation of ILO Convention 187, relevant government agencies, statutory bodies and industry need to work together to generate a comprehensive OSH strategy, invest in training and capacity building and promote collaboration between tripartite partners namely the government, employers and employees.
He acknowledged that there may be challenges related to the implementation of the convention’s standards such as limited resources, lack of awareness and understanding of the convention’s requirements, effective enforcement of regulations and OSH laws, particularly in less regulated sectors such as informal employment and PMKS and cultural attitudes inappropriate ones that prioritize profit over job security.
Nevertheless, he emphasized that by working together and working to solve the obstacles together, the principles of ILO Convention 187 can be effectively implemented leading to a more productive, healthy and safe workplace.
