The Plantations and Commodities Minister, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, asserts that companies treating their foreign workers fairly shouldn't be concerned about the government's proposal to penalize those exploiting these workers. He emphasized the necessity for swift government action in resolving the persistent problem of foreign workers being misled regarding job opportunities.
Responding to objections from the Malaysian Manufacturers Federation president, Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai, regarding the proposal to fine companies RM30,000 per person for not providing jobs to their workers, Johari stressed that companies adhering to ethical recruitment processes need not worry about fines. He clarified that agencies can't apply for quotas without demands from companies and highlighted the potential hefty fines for agencies found using fake documents to inflate quotas.
Johari emphasized the proposal's aim as a deterrent against unscrupulous exploitation of the system, with fines covering repatriation costs of foreign workers, currently borne by the government. Tightening the recruitment process for foreign workers by approving quotas only for companies with actual job openings was stressed as crucial.
Highlighting the issue of companies requesting worker quotas without available jobs, Johari condemned this as human trafficking or forced labor, assuring that agencies or employers not involved in such practices won't face fines.
Emphasizing the burden posed by foreign workers left jobless in Malaysia, Johari highlighted their strain on resources, subsidies, healthcare, and social problems, stressing the need for a solution. The proposal, presented during a Cabinet meeting, stemmed from the detention of 171 Bangladeshi workers who, on December 25, were unable to secure jobs despite contacting the police station, highlighting the pressing need for intervention.
By addressing exploitative practices while safeguarding companies with ethical recruitment practices, Johari's proposal aims to mitigate the challenges faced by both foreign workers and the country's resources, particularly in sectors like plantations dealing with labor shortages.
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