She is a doting mother to three young boys, and she is undertaking a diploma in employment relations… Noor Irdawaty already has a lot on her plate. But she is also a passionate union member who focuses her efforts on advocacy of wages.
“There was an issue with the bonus payout in our company. Needless to say, the staff were upset and fed up as they had been looking forward to it. My mentor, Patrick Teo, stood up to address and resolve the matter. Seeing him go all out for the workers was truly admirable. It influenced me and I thought to myself: I am passionate about workplace issues,” recalled Irdawaty.
This then propelled the 29-year-old administrative manager in a facilities management company to join the Building Construction and Timber Industries Employees’ Union (BATU) in 2012.
While her efforts are focused on advocacy of wages, she also helps and educates young workers on their rights when faced with grievances, which they may encounter in their workplace.
“As a young working adult, I understand the younger generation have the tendency to job-hop. It shows a lack of belonging to the company. Understanding union works can help to reinforce this aspect."
Going beyond union work, Irdawaty also co-organised several events for members within a year.
“Some people think I am a little out of my mind, fitting in all these activities at the same time. But I will definitely find time for union work. I don’t see why I cannot do it. I believe that if I find the fulfilment in what I do, it should just come as second nature. I don’t think it is an extra chore for me. There is still a journey to explore,” she affirmed.
Original article can be found in NTUC This Week (16 August 2013)
