KUALA LUMPUR – The Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma) has denied that the proposed implementation of a digital platform for direct foreign worker recruitment has been finalised, stressing that it remains under review.
The ministry said various reports and differing interpretations have caused confusion, including claims suggesting that a decision has already been made.
“Any assertion that a decision has been finalised is untrue and does not reflect the government’s actual position,” Kesuma said in a statement today.
It explained that a comprehensive study of the foreign worker ecosystem had identified gaps in recruitment processes in source countries, particularly involving debt bondage borne by workers.
“In this regard, the ministry is exploring the need to develop a digital platform powered by artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the foreign worker recruitment ecosystem holistically,” the statement said.
According to Kesuma, the proposed approach would allow employers to recruit workers directly based on actual labour needs, covering the entire process in source countries, including registration, selection, job matching, contract agreement and facilitation of worker deployment.
Recruitment costs would be fully borne by employers, reducing reliance on intermediaries and ensuring that foreign workers are not burdened with financial costs.
“This proposal aligns with fair and ethical recruitment principles as outlined by the International Labour Organization (ILO), and has the potential to address issues such as human trafficking and forced labour,” it added.
Kesuma also said the system would be integrated with existing government platforms such as the Foreign Worker Centralised Management System (FWCMS) and the National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe).
Early-stage engagement sessions are currently being conducted with labour source countries including Bangladesh, Indonesia and India, as well as industry players and technology providers.
“Any eventual decision will go through due consideration and Cabinet approval following comprehensive engagement with all stakeholders,” the ministry said.
It reiterated its commitment to strengthening local talent development as the core of labour market reform, in line with the long-term agenda to reduce reliance on foreign workers as outlined under the 13th Malaysia Plan. – April 21, 2026
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