Migrant quota fraud: HR minister orders strict action

The Human Resources Ministry is not taking the migrant quota fraud scandal lightly as the authorities are investigating the matter.

Its minister V Sivakumar stressed that strict action would be taken against those responsible.

"This matter is under investigation. We are identifying those involved in this fraud and we will take strong action against any employer or entity that is involved in bringing in migrant workers without having employment ready for them in the country.

"I am serious about this. I have also discussed the matter during the post-cabinet meeting and ordered the Labour Department to be strict in addressing this issue.

"This is very important to safeguard our country's image," he said when met after launching an event in Subang, Selangor yesterday.

Sivakumar was commenting on his ministry’s probe into migrant quota fraud activities.

The probe was launched after Malaysiakini’s exclusive reports exposed the syndicates applying for migrant workers' quotas using fake documents.

Six companies had received quotas to bring in 1,625 migrants to work in the service sector last year.

However, hundreds of the workers found out upon arrival that there was no work waiting for them, thus highlighting weaknesses in government enforcement.

Not that many victims

Sivakumar reiterated that the number of migrant workers involved in the incident was not as high as reported in the news.

"The number reported was too high, but the reality is not like that.

"However, the ministry and the Labour Department are taking all measures necessary to address the issue," he said.

Former Klang MP Charles Santiago recently slammed Sivakumar for saying that the issue was "under control".

The minister also reminded all parties looking to bring in migrant workers to ensure that employment is ready for the workers upon arrival.

"If they fail to comply, we will take stern action," he added. - Mkini