Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Steven Sim has suggested that Malaysia should relook at the issue of refugee employment, especially for those who are already living in the country.
He said the government could consider allowing eligible refugees to legally join the labour market under specific conditions, particularly in industries that continue to face manpower shortages.
‘Why not use those already here?’
Speaking to reporters after visiting Chowrasta Market in Penang with Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow on Saturday morning, Sim said many 3D sectors, meaning dirty, dangerous and difficult jobs, still rely heavily on foreign workers.
According to Oriental Daily, he said that since some refugees have already been staying in Malaysia for a long time, the government could study a proper mechanism to allow them to work legally in these sectors.
Some 3D industries are indeed facing manpower shortages. Instead of continuously bringing in foreign workers from overseas, why not consider making use of the refugee groups who are already in the country and allow them to enter the labour market?” he reportedly said.
Could reduce social problems
Sim said giving refugees access to legal work could also help improve their livelihoods and reduce social issues.
He explained that some refugees, who do not have access to formal employment, may turn to small businesses or informal economic activities.
This, he said, could lead to competition and friction with local petty traders.
Because of this, Sim said allowing refugees to work through proper and legal channels may help them integrate better into society while reducing related tensions.
He added that the matter had already been raised at the Cabinet level, and the Home Ministry had been instructed to study and follow up on the proposal.
Rohingya issue is a long-term challenge
On the Rohingya refugee issue, Sim said it was not a new problem, but one that had built up over many years.
He said the government has received complaints from various areas involving refugee settlements, housing locations and community management.
According to him, these issues are not limited to one particular state, as similar challenges are being faced in several parts of the country, including Penang.
Sim also said the situation may be linked to weaknesses in past border control and immigration monitoring mechanisms.
However, he stressed that the unity government has strengthened border control and will continue improving enforcement and monitoring to prevent illegal entry from worsening.
He said the government would ensure Malaysia’s borders are properly managed while coming up with better policies to address existing refugee-related issues.
