The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) has been issued a temporary dissolution order by the Registrar of Societies (ROS) after failing to submit required documents and financial records within the stipulated timeframe.
According to a notice dated May 7, 2026, issued under Section 14(5) of the Societies Act 1966, the order takes effect immediately following MTUC’s failure to comply with earlier instructions from the authorities.
The directive, issued on April 6, required MTUC to submit audited financial statements, including records of receipts and payments, balance sheets from 2020 to 2025, as well as details of any foreign contributions, assets or financial benefits received during the same period.
ROS stated that the organisation did not comply with the request despite a written directive, leading to the enforcement action.
The notice also stated that MTUC has 30 days to file an appeal to the Home Ministry under Section 18 of the Societies Act 1966.
If no appeal is submitted within the period, or if the appeal is rejected, the temporary dissolution will become final, and MTUC may be classified as an unlawful association.
Under Section 42 of the same Act, any individual involved in managing or assisting an unlawful organisation could face imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to RM15,000, or both upon conviction.
The notice was signed by Selangor ROS officer Nurul Azhar Husin and addressed to MTUC secretary, with copies sent to president Abdul Halim Mansor and treasurer Bindu Girdharlal Patel.
The ROS emphasised that MTUC, Malaysia’s oldest national trade union body established in 1949, must comply with regulatory requirements under the law.
In a separate statement, the ROS said the decision was made strictly based on legal provisions and evidence of non-compliance, stressing that all enforcement actions are carried out professionally, transparently and without influence from any party.
The department also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring all registered organisations operate in an orderly and lawful manner in accordance with the Societies Act 1966.
