Kuala Lumpur: The government will conduct engagement sessions with all stakeholders in the industry before implementing the multi-tier levy mechanism (MTLM) this year, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim announced.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the engagement sessions will involve industry players and regulatory agencies within the government. Minister Sim emphasized the importance of these sessions, stating, “The various industry portfolios are closely linked to the policies of the ministry and government departments. Of course, we will hold engagement sessions with all relevant stakeholders.”

Minister Sim expressed his hope for support from all parties, including the industry, as the initiative aims to restructure the labour market and enhance the industry’s and country’s economic competitiveness. He addressed these comments during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Negara, responding to a query from Senator Tan Sri Datuk Low Kian Chuan regarding the MTLM’s implementation timeline and stakeholder engagement.

The government had previously announced that the MTLM would be introduced under the 12th Malaysia Plan to reduce dependence on foreign workers to below 15 percent of the total workforce. In addition, Sim clarified that the government is maintaining its decision to freeze quota applications for hiring foreign workers, a measure in place since March 18, 2023. He noted that this policy supports the goal of capping foreign employment at no more than 15 percent of the workforce by 2025, aligning with the principle of prioritizing local hires before filling vacancies with foreign workers.