In recognition of workers, who are a vital driving force essential to national economic development, Labour Day has been commemorated annually. The observance of the commemorative day has reached its 88th anniversary on 1 May 2026.
The government is promoting and supporting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to expand domestic employment opportunities, reduce unemployment, boost domestic production, increase exports, and substitute imports. Under the new administration, certain restrictions have been eased, and loans are being provided to facilitate the growth and development of MSMEs.
Workers, who are the country’s main productive force, are able to enjoy greater social security and healthcare services. By increasing public trust in the social security system, productivity can be improved, which in turn significantly contributes to the national economy. With this objective, workers’ hospitals, social security clinics, departmental clinics, traditional medicine clinics, mobile medical units, as well as contracted clinics have been established to provide healthcare services to insured workers.
Labour attachés have been appointed and assigned in countries such as Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Thailand. In countries where there are no labour attachés, protection and assistance are provided through Myanmar embassies and consulates-general in the respective countries. For Myanmar workers employed abroad, labour attachés, together with Myanmar embassies and consulates-general, take responsibility for addressing grievances, workplace injuries, and fatalities, and coordinate with relevant parties to ensure that workers receive their entitled rights and benefits.
Efforts are being made to promote and enhance education in order to nurture a strong human resource base equipped with knowledge and skills. Upon completing at least the KG+9 level in the education system, vocational training is also provided to enable individuals to become skilled in agriculture, livestock breeding, and industrial fields.
In addition, efforts to eliminate child labour have been carried out through five-year plans since 2019, with the industrial manufacturing sector and the trade and commerce sector designated as priority areas for implementation. School dropouts who enter the workforce prematurely reduce the number of knowledgeable and skilled professionals needed for the country’s future. Therefore, it is urged that everyone cooperate and participate in efforts to eliminate child labour.
The Government, employers, and workers are cooperating through a tripartite approach to develop a skilled labour force and to create more employment opportunities. In honour of International Workers’ Day, workers have to work hand in hand with the Government for the development of the nation.