The Human Resources Minister V. Sivakumar stated that a total of 152,158 foreign workers are expected to come to Malaysia to meet the demand of local industries facing a shortage of local human resources. As of now, there are already over 1.83 million foreign workers in the country on temporary employment visit passes (PLKS). In addition, the Recalibration Programme has registered 747,167 previously undocumented migrants who were issued new work permits. This information was disclosed during Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (Oct 31).
Datuk Awang Hashim (PN-Pendang) inquired about the number of foreign workers in Malaysia and the government’s measures to reduce dependence on foreign workers and reskill the local workforce. In response, Sivakumar mentioned that the government will continue incentivizing local industries to adopt digitalization, mechanization, and automation in their operations. By doing so, the demand for skilled workers will increase, encouraging more local workers to seek upskilling. Sivakumar also shared that the ministry is exploring the possibility of providing incentives for local businesses to hire locals.
On March 19, Sivakumar announced the postponement of quota application and approval for foreign workers, including through the Foreign Worker Employment Relaxation Plan, to an undetermined date.
