KUALA LUMPUR: The government has approved a special one-time quota of 24,570 foreign workers for 143 plantation companies to address ongoing labour shortages, according to Plantation and Commodity Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.
He emphasized that this approval is aimed at helping plantation employers overcome immediate workforce challenges. Additionally, in urgent cases, employers can hire foreign workers already in Malaysia through the Home Ministry’s employer change application process, Johari explained in a written parliamentary response on Wednesday.
Responding to a question from Datuk Azman Nasrudin (PN-Padang Serai) on labour shortage measures, Johari said the ministry requires employers to adhere to the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification standards. These standards ensure compliance with laws such as the Workers’ Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990, the Employment Act 1955, and other relevant regulations to safeguard the welfare of foreign workers and prevent unethical practices.
“The government is committed to eradicating forced labour. On March 21, 2022, Malaysia ratified the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Convention No. 29 on Forced Labour, becoming the fifth country in the Asia-Pacific region and the second in ASEAN to do so. This demonstrates our commitment to eliminating forced labour, protecting workers’ rights, and ensuring ethical employment practices,” Johari stated.
In addition to addressing labour shortages with foreign workers, the government is working to attract local talent to the plantation sector. Johari highlighted efforts to make careers in the industry more appealing through the adoption of advanced technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). Training programs for roles like machine specialists and harvesting technicians are also being implemented.
“These initiatives are being carried out through strategic collaborations with institutions like the Malaysian Plantation and Commodities Institute, Sime Darby Plantation, and FGV Holdings Bhd,” he added.
