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Statement by Dr Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Vice-Chairman and MP for Kepong on the intention of the Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr Fong Chan Onn to visit countries that supply workers. 4.3.2002.

The movement of people occurs throughtout human history. As Malaysian society changes, there are legal and illegal migrant workers in the country, in particular those from Indonesia.

Because of various factors, a small number of Indonesians created distrubances. Therefore, the Malaysian Cabinet decides to restrict migrant workers to 100,000 per country. There are about 600,000 Indonesians with permits. The true number of illegals is unknown, perhaps one or two million.

Workers from countries such as Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Khazakstan are allowed to work in construction, manufacturing, plantation and services. Meanwhile, those from the Philippines and Indonesia can continue to become domestic helps. Now, the Government lets Philippino males to work here.

CONSISTENT POLICY

Although the Governemnt decreases the number of Indonesians, illegals arouse attention. As the policy and measures on migrant workers are inconsistent, employers in various sectors face problems. Bureaucracy and red-tape confuse the people. As a small number of police and other law enforcers commit irregularities, problems persist.

If the Government says that it allows each worker to stay for two years, renewable up to six years, then the enforcement must be effective. If the quota of 100,000 is filled, the Government finds workers from another country, avoiding the hassles.

The Human Resources Minister would like to visit countries that supply workers. This is one step. Meanwhile, he has to find ways to make policy and measures on migrant workers consistent. If there is no cumbersome procedure, red-tape or inconsistent policy, then a small number of corrupt enforcers will have little opportunity.

Dr Tan Seng Giaw