Malaysia's Human Resources Minister, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, has emphasized that local citizens must be prioritized for job opportunities before considering foreign workers. This policy aligns with the ministry's primary objective of ensuring employment for Malaysians. Ramanan stated, "As the Human Resources Minister, my foremost priority is jobs for Malaysians. Job offers must always go to the locals first. If there are no takers, then yes, we can offer to foreigners, provided the recruitment complies with Malaysia's laws and regulations."
In response to the urgent need for foreign workers in sectors like restaurants, the ministry plans to streamline the application process. Ramanan has instructed relevant departments to expedite foreign worker applications, aiming to resolve them within 20 days, subject to necessary procedures. This initiative follows Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's directive to address labour shortages promptly while ensuring proper regulation.
The government has also centralized the management of foreign worker quotas under the Human Resources Ministry. Employers are now required to submit quota applications through a digital system, eliminating manual interventions and expediting approvals. This move aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in foreign worker management.
Additionally, the ministry is developing a direct hiring system for foreign workers to reduce reliance on intermediaries and associated costs. This system is intended to allow employers to hire foreign workers directly, ensuring compliance with Malaysia's laws and regulations.
These measures reflect the government's commitment to balancing the employment needs of foreign workers with the priority of providing job opportunities to Malaysians.