Kuala lumpur: Malaysians must be given priority for available jobs before employers turn to foreign workers, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said. He emphasized that this policy aligns with the Human Resources Ministry's primary objective of ensuring employment opportunities are offered to local workers first.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, 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." He made these remarks in response to the proposal to allow legally recognized Rohingya refugees in Malaysia to take up employment. Ramanan was speaking after his official visit to the Indian Community Socio-Economic Development Programme (PPSMI) at SJKT Ladang Senawang.

He further mentioned that the ministry would streamline the application process for foreign workers, especially in the services sector. This move is in line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's directive to expedite the recruitment of foreign labour where necessary. Ramanan highlighted his commitment to cutting unnecessary red tape and avoiding delays in processing applications. "The Prime Minister has given us 30 days to resolve the matter, but I intend to expedite the process. I hope we can complete it within 20 days, subject to issues involving human resources, security screening, and related procedures," he said.

Last week, Prime Minister Anwar instructed the ministry and relevant agencies to resolve applications for foreign worker recruitment, particularly in the restaurant sector, within one month. He acknowledged the urgent need for restaurant operators to address labour shortages while ensuring that the recruitment of foreign workers remains properly regulated.

Malaysia currently limits the number of foreign workers in the labour market. Under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), foreign workers must not account for more than 15 per cent of the national workforce. The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) aims to further reduce that proportion to 10 per cent by 2030.