Pay peanuts, rake in millions: Johari takes aim at employers over plight of M’sian workers

Malaysia's Investment, Trade and Industry Minister, Johari Abdul Ghani, has called for a reduction in the nation's dependence on foreign workers, recommending that companies limit their hiring to jobs that are dirty, dangerous, and difficult (3D). The minister voiced concern over the long-standing reliance of many established businesses in Malaysia on foreign labor.

Currently, Malaysia hosts 2.6 million foreign workers, a figure that should be decreasing under the 13th Malaysia Plan, but has remained stable as companies persist in seeking foreign workers. In response to a query from Tan Hong Pin (PH-Bakri), Johari suggested that industries seeking foreign workers should clarify why these workers are essential for 3D jobs, while other positions should include salary information and required qualifications.