Kota Kinabalu: Former Chief Minister Tan Sri Harris Salleh urged the Federal Government to review its current policy requiring foreign workers to return to their home countries for six months after a year of employment, describing it as counterproductive and disruptive to industries.
He said foreign workers are vital to sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture, and the policy could unintentionally impact both productivity and workers’ welfare.
“Foreign workers contribute significantly to Malaysia’s economy. However, requiring them to return home after just one year poses challenges — not only for the workers who may struggle to find short-term employment in their countries but also for industries that depend on a stable and consistent workforce,” he said in a statement.
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“To maintain our economic growth, particularly our target of over five per cent annually, it is essential that labour policies are practical and aligned with the realities on the ground,” he said.
He expressed concern that the six-month return policy has led to unintended consequences, including large numbers of workers being stranded in border towns such as Nunukan in Kalimantan, Indonesia.
“Reports have shown that some of these workers, once returned, lack access to proper shelter or employment, highlighting the need for a more humane and structured approach,” he said.
Harris added that while Malaysia positions itself as a proponent of human rights and Islamic values, it is important that domestic policies reflect these principles in practice.
He urged the Government to reassess its policies with a view toward both economic resilience and humanitarian responsibility.
