Education needs to be realigned to meet industry demand

Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid believes the figure will continue to grow because Malaysia has become dependent on foreign workers, especially for tasks that require physical strength and endurance.

THE presence of foreign workers in Malaysia dates back a long time. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly what made Malaysia the mecca to the millions of workers who have come to Malaysia to seek employment in industries ranging from plantations, construction, manufacturing and even food and beverage.

Pre-Covid, the foreign worker population at its height stood at a whopping two million although unofficial figures could be higher by over a million if the illegal workers are taken into account.