Almost a third of foreign worker applications rejected in Malaysia

According to Bernama, the Peninsular Malaysia Manpower Department (JTKSM) deputy director (Operations) Wan Zulkifli Wan Setapa has commented that 30% of the 3,209 applications for foreign workers submitted by employers have been rejected this year for failure to comply with the minimum standard guideline for worker’s accommodation.

He said compliance with the guideline was a prerequisite for the intake of foreign workers, which included providing accommodation that is approved by the local authorities and in a safe environment. Additionally, male and female workers must also be housed in separate dorms.

Speaking at a press conference in Putrajaya, he said: "The issue of worker’s accommodation should not be taken lightly by employers as we have received complaints from foreign workers, especially those who live in wooden huts at construction sites and filthy environment.”

He added that a large number of employers failed to comply with the minimum standard for worker accommodation compared with other offences - resulting in their application rejected.

Zulkifli said employers who failed to comply with conditions set would be blacklisted for future applications.

He said the department had conducted 25,680 enforcement operations to ensure foreign workers enjoy the rights and benefits set by the government.

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