Advancing Equality: A Comparative Analysis of Employment Rights for Disabled Individuals in Malaysia and Japan

This article provides a comparative legal analysis of employment rights for people with disabilities in Malaysia and Japan, focusing on the strengths and limitations of the legal frameworks in both countries. The study critically examines Malaysia’s Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 and Japan’s Law for Employment Promotion of Persons with Disabilities, highlighting the effectiveness of each in protecting the employment rights of individuals with disabilities. The analysis reveals that while Malaysia’s legal framework aligns with international standards, enforcement and awareness remain inadequate. Japan’s model, which includes a mandatory quota system and punitive measures, offers a more robust framework for ensuring the employment of disabled individuals. The research emphasises the need for Malaysia to introduce stricter enforcement mechanisms, greater societal awareness, and possible amendments to the Persons with Disabilities Act to enhance the protection of employment rights. Interviews with experts and individuals from the disabled community underscore the persistent discrimination and challenges faced in the workplace, reinforcing the need for reform and policy enhancements to achieve equal opportunities for people with disabilities.