"Many laborers work continuously but accumulate little, easily facing difficulties during illness or unforeseen events. The government and trade unions need to confront this reality, listen, and provide suitable solutions", General Secretary and President To Lam stated at the event commemorating International Labor Day, Worker's Month 2026, and in preparation for the 14th Congress of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor.

He noted that TP HCM is a major economic hub, attracting a large workforce from various localities. Many migrate to the city for work, contributing to its growth, but face pressures regarding income, housing, living costs, children's education, and healthcare.

General Secretary and President To Lam speaking at a meeting with TP HCM workers, morning of 27/4. Photo: An Phuong

General Secretary and President To Lam speaking at a meeting with TP HCM workers, morning of 27/4. Photo: An Phuong

The head of the Party and State urged TP HCM to continue prioritizing worker welfare. This includes reviewing the demand for social housing, dormitories, schools, medical facilities, and cultural institutions in industrial and export processing zones. The objective is to ensure workers have stable accommodation, conditions to care for their families, and access to essential services.

He also suggested that wages should aim for a living standard, not just the minimum. Additionally, he called for increased training and encouragement of initiatives within businesses. "Every correct policy, every practical action, every timely concern can help a family reduce hardship", the General Secretary and President said.

For trade unions, he requested enhanced protection of worker rights, ensuring timely intervention during difficulties such as job loss, unpaid wages, or labor accidents. Businesses must focus on wages, benefits, labor safety, working conditions, and opportunities for skill development.

Huynh Thi Ly, a worker from Yazaki Company, shared her views during a meeting with General Secretary and President To Lam, morning of 27/4. Photo: An Phuong

Huynh Thi Ly, a worker from Yazaki Company, shared her views during a meeting with General Secretary and President To Lam, morning of 27/4. Photo: An Phuong

The General Secretary and President also encouraged workers to pursue vocational training, develop digital skills, learn foreign languages, and proactively adapt to new production requirements.

Earlier, Nguyen Anh Tuan, Chairman of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor, stated that the country has approximately 17 million workers, primarily aged 19-35, employed in industrial, service, and high-tech sectors. However, many have unstable jobs and incomes, with low savings. There remains a significant demand for housing, schools, healthcare, and a living wage.

TP HCM alone has over 7 million workers, mostly migrants, who face pressure from housing and living costs. During the meeting, some workers expressed that current wages do not meet their minimum needs, proposing a shift from minimum wage to a living wage. They also suggested developing social housing near industrial zones at appropriate costs.

General Secretary and President To Lam visited and presented gifts to workers on the morning of 27/4. Photo: Le Tuyet

General Secretary and President To Lam visited and presented gifts to workers on the morning of 27/4. Photo: Le Tuyet

Many workers echoed the sentiment that current wages are insufficient, noting that any unforeseen event could easily lead to financial distress. Luu Van Nhiem, a worker from Saigon Stec Company, proposed a transition from minimum wage to a living wage, enabling workers not only to subsist but also to save. Meanwhile, Huynh Thi Ly, a worker from Yazaki Company, expressed a desire for affordable social housing near industrial zones, along with a safe living environment and traceable food sources, to alleviate the burdens of daily life.

Le Tuyet