Employers in Malaysia to comply with existing foreign workers' accommodation laws, reminds MoHR

This statement follows a special operation for the enforcement of the Workers' Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446) at three wood and rubber products factories.

Malaysia's Ministry of Human Resources (MoHR) has reminded employers nationwide to ensure that the accommodation of foreign workers is always comfortable.

As cited in New Straits Times, HR Minister, V. Sivakumar highlighted that the conditions of foreign workers' accommodation which are not in compliance with the stipulated conditions will endanger workers, particularly in the event of a pandemic or unforeseen disasters.

This statement follows a special operation for the enforcement of the Workers' Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446) at three wood and rubber products factories in Jalan Kapar. During the operation, several non-complying offences were found to be committed by the employers, including failure to provide mattresses, poor cooking space, and cramped rooms.

The three factories operate with a foreign workforce of 526 people, namely from Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. The owners of the three factories will be charged upon the completion of the investigation papers.

"The results of the inspection found that these employers committed a number of offences, including under Section 24D of Act 446, and also offences under Regulations 3 and 4 of the same law," shared Minister Sivakumar. Further, the employers were also found to have committed an offence under the law enforced by DOSH (Department of Occupational Safety and Health), and not contributing under Perkeso (Social Security Organisation).

When asked about amendments to the existing law, Minister Sivakumar affirmed that the law was sufficient to ensure that employers take appropriate action.

"We will monitor more frequently from now on, to ensure that incoming foreign workers get good placement, and are given due attention by employers."

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