Migrant Workers in Malaysia: Protection of Employers

Among the Asian countries, the importation of migrant workers in Malaysia is a necessity when the country is facing an acute shortage of labour force in its multi-sectoral development programs. Malaysia desperately needs the migrant workers in order to keep up with sustainable economic development and rapid economic progress in the country. However, the government should be very vigilant and play an active role in employing the optimum number of foreign workers. While their rights and welfare must be taken care of as not to affect the existing political relationship between the sending and receiving countries, the rights of the employers must not be ignored. Migrant workers are always portrayed as victims of abuse, exploitation and harassment by their employers. In reality, employers of the migrant workers deal with bigger responsibilities such as adhering to the rules, regulations and policies laid down by the law. Apart from that, employers of migrant workers also have duties towards the country, society and respective immigrant workers. Employers have to ensure that the productivities of their immigrant workers contribute to the stability of economy and their employment benefit the society. Employers also have to ensure that the rights and welfare of the immigrant workers are well taken care of. In spite of the challenging responsibilities, employers of the migrant workers lack assistance and protection with regards to their rights. This research looks into the protection of employers of migrant workers, the effect and recommendations to improve the relationships of both groups. The focus of this research is on three sectors, namely manufacturing, construction and domestic.