Anwar open to foreign workers for oil palm harvesting, with mechanisation pledge

KUALA LUMPUR - Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is willing to consider approving foreign workers for oil palm harvesting, provided the plantation industry makes a commitment to reducing its reliance on migrant labor through mechanisation. Speaking at the 14th Malaysia Madani Scholars Forum, Anwar emphasized that any abuse of workers, including foreign workers, must be dealt with through firm action.

Responding to a question from a plantation industry representative, Anwar stated that while machines have already been used for fertilising and weeding, none are yet available for harvesting oil palm fruit, a task that still relies on foreign labor. The representative highlighted that recruitment takes about three months, with an additional three months required for training.

He expressed concern that production could be affected next year if workers are not secured now, especially considering the expected El Niño and haze conditions.

Anwar indicated that he would approach the matter sympathetically and raise it with the relevant minister. He noted that major plantation companies have not invested sufficiently in mechanisation, even when profits are high. He criticized companies for opposing wage increases when profits reach billions, stating that the government would have to make such measures mandatory.

Anwar emphasized that Malaysia cannot allow oppression and the dehumanisation of workers in the name of economic growth. He drew a parallel between the conditions faced by foreign workers in the past and their current situation, stating that he cannot accept such treatment. The prime minister also mentioned that the government is negotiating with source countries to reduce recruitment costs, describing agents who hold workers' passports as engaging in modern slavery.

Furthermore, Anwar discussed the repatriation of Myanmar nationals in Malaysia, stating that over 10,000 have been sent back under an arrangement. He acknowledged the conflicting reactions from human rights groups and public opinion when these nationals are either sent back or allowed to stay. Anwar highlighted that more than 10,000 Myanmar nationals have since been repatriated by air and sea following talks with Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing during his official visit to Malaysia.

Myanmar has also agreed to take back between 3,000 and 4,000 of its nationals held at immigration depots at its own expense.

Tightening foreign worker policies could impact certain industries, while loosening them could lead to serious economic and social problems, Anwar stated. He concluded by reiterating the need for a balanced approach, emphasizing that tightening policies will affect certain industries, while loosening them would create significant economic and social issues.