Employers, private firms urged to consider alternatives to help interns

 

The Human Resources Ministry has asked employers and private companies hiring students as interns to consider other alternatives besides providing grants to help less abled students.

Its minister V Sivakumar said the proposed alternatives included accommodation, food preparation, and transport that could reduce students’ burdens.

He agreed with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's statement that setting allowances for interns is dependent on employers or private companies.

Sivakumar (above) said the ministry will study the issue of allowances, examine it comprehensively and take appropriate action, considering the views and needs of the parties involved, including trainees in the industry and private sector players.

The government has yet to finalise a policy or guidelines on training allowances for private companies as it is a complex issue that requires in-depth study and consultation with various stakeholders, especially the Higher Education Ministry, he explained.

"The government is committed to ensuring that all interns, whether in the public or private sector, are treated fairly and equitably.

“If necessary, the government will provide clear and detailed guidelines for the payment of training allowances in the private sector," he added.

- Bernama