Government Removes Restriction on Recruitment of Foreign Workers

Government has repeatedly stressed that appropriate measures will be put in place to reduce dependency on foreign workers but the latest announcement (Star 28/12/2011) of policy change has created serious doubt in the minds of Malaysians.

By Abdul Halim bin Mansor (Sec Gen MTUC) 

MTUC is seeking an urgent meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister to discuss Home Affairs Ministry’s recent decision to allow recruitment of foreign workers in 10 more sectors and 11 sub sectors.

It appears that Government’s about turn policy on this important issue resulted from pressure from interested parties.

Did the Ministry of Home Affairs seek the views of the Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR) before lifting the freeze? What impact will this new policy have on employment opportunities for Malaysians?

Government has repeatedly stressed that appropriate measures will be put in place to reduce dependency on foreign workers but the latest announcement (Star 28/12/2011) of policy change has created serious doubt in the minds of Malaysians.

Government’s decision to liberalise has widened the list to include all sectors. For example, about a year ago when the Government imposed restriction on recruitment of croupiers in the country, many Malaysians were successful in securing employment as croupiers. The new policy will immediately shut the door to Malaysians.

Minister of Home Affairs appear to be insensitive to the needs of Malaysians. Foreign Worker Recruitment Agencies’ needs seem to be given priority and importance than the needs of Malaysian Workers.

(ABDUL HALIM BIN MANSOR)
SECRETARY GENERAL