The Gods and The King of Fruits

Good read. Nature Contained: Environmental Histories of Singapore : Timothy Barnard (Author, Editor). 2014.

I find this part interesting. Luckily I don't eat durian.

Low wages linked to fewer, weaker unions

The goods and services tax (GST) which kicked in on April 1 has turned the spotlight once again on the country’s low-wage rut, with economists pointing at the weakening bargaining power of workers, influx of migrant labour and national economic policies as the main causes.

A long-standing problem, experts have said low wages were the result of Malaysia's industrialisation policy, which has long focused on the manufacturing sector.

But it also correlates with a steady fall in union membership, in part caused by dependence on foreign labour.

In fact, an economist at a recent forum on the welfare of Malaysians, said better bargaining rights for workers, such as through unions, could ensure better wages and benefits.

Public Forum : Redesigning an Inclusive Future.

                                                               All are welcome