Migrant workers in Malaysia deserve respect, according to Azalina's statement.
In Malaysia, the government is taking steps to address the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and the treatment of migrant workers, as part of its national economic plans. The aim is to lower the proportion of foreign workers in the workforce from 15% to 10% starting 2026, with a focus on raising wages for local citizens and boosting productivity [1][2].
The government's multi-tiered levy mechanism (MTLM) requires employers to pay higher levies if they hire more foreign workers, with the funds channeled towards automation and mechanization initiatives [2]. However, this policy has raised concerns among employers about increased costs.
Regarding migrant worker protection and human rights, Malaysian authorities acknowledge the need to treat migrant workers fairly to uphold human rights beyond just adhering to International Labour Organization (ILO) rules [2]. However, debates continue in political circles around minimum wage and social security contributions for migrant workers, with some figures opposing mandatory minimum wages or provident fund contributions for this group [2]. Advocacy groups have criticized such stances as endorsements of worker exploitation [2].
One of the key figures leading these discussions is Azalina, who has emphasized the need to protect the public from fraud or manipulation with AI technology and the fabrication of online documents [3]. She also pointed out that AI technology can produce visuals or audio resembling individuals who do not exist, and that the current legal system needs to be upgraded due to AI-related laws requiring different approaches [3]. Furthermore, Azalina stated that courts must be confident in their consideration of AI-based evidence [3].
In terms of legal protections for migrant workers, the Employment Act 1955 is a key piece of legislation. The Department of Labour has enhanced hiring procedures for foreign workers under this act, improving systems linked to the MTLM and initial approval mechanisms [4]. The government’s joint committee on foreign worker management strictly controls quota applications by sector and subsector to channel foreign labor into prioritized areas such as agriculture, plantation, mining, security, and specific manufacturing and construction projects [3][4].
Key current issues include a government-set cap on foreign workers at around 2.47 million for 2025, with reopening of quota applications only for selected sectors under strict controls [3][4]. There is also ongoing debate over the adequacy and enforcement of migrant worker wage protections and social security [2].
Hishamudin Yunus, Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) chairman, agreed with the need to respect foreign workers and stated that they are entitled to protection from Malaysian institutions [5]. Foreign workers facing exploitation in Malaysia can lodge a report with Suhakam for investigation [5].
Malaysia is also making strides in modernizing its approach to business and human rights, launching its first National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAPBHR) at a press conference [6]. The plan aims to ensure that businesses operating in Malaysia respect human rights and contribute to sustainable development [6].
In conclusion, Malaysia's efforts to regulate and reduce its dependence on migrant workers while ensuring their protection and human rights reflects a complex balance between economic restructuring goals, regulatory frameworks, and resistance from some political and employer sectors. The government continues to refine policies in this area through sectoral quotas, levy systems, and labor regulations under current laws like the Employment Act 1955 [1][2][3][5].
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