KANGAR, June 27 — Malaysia will find a new alternative source to replace Indonesian domestic helpers if the republic was firm on a decision to stop sending its citizens to work as maids in Malaysia.
Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam said he would discuss the matter with his Indonesian counterpart, Erman Suparno, who was scheduled to visit Malaysia by middle of next month.
“Indonesia has already announced its decision but (they) still want a meeting to be convened. It’s their right,” he told reporters when asked to comment on the republic’s decision yesterday to stop sending workers to Malaysia with immediate effect.
Indonesian Manpower Minister, Erman Suparno was reported as saying that the decision was made following a flood of complaints from domestic helpers, who claimed abuse by their Malaysian employers and that the decision would remain in force until Malaysia implements steps to protect the welfare of Indonesian workers.
Subramaniam said it would have been better if a decision had been made after both countries had exhausted all avenues by way of discussions.
“But if the decision is final, then we will decide on the best option available, like looking at the possibility of getting domestic helpers from other Asean countries,” he said.
When asked whether abuse and mistreatment suffered by Indonesian maids in this country had been rampant, Subramaniam said an average of 50 cases were reported annually as compared with 300,000 Indonesian maids working here.
He said there was also a possibility that more Indonesian citizens may try to enter Malaysia illegally due to the ban. Subramaniam however, warned that such an act was an offence under the law and legal action would be taken against illegal workers and their employers.
Earlier, Subramaniam accompanied MIC President, Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu to the 63rd Perlis MIC Convention at the Residency Hall, here. — Bernama
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