Government urged to deport those who violate country’s labour laws

JOHOR BARU: The Johor Baru Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged the Government to immediately deport foreign workers who violate the country’s labour laws by resorting to violence.

Its president Datuk Loh Liam Hiang said while Malaysia welcomed foreign workers, they should not break the country’s laws.

“Malaysia should emulate Singapore by banning for life foreigners who violate the country’s labour laws.

“Damaging property or striking will interrupt productivity,” he said in response to the riot by workers of JCY HDD Technology Sdn Bhd here.

Loh said the authorities should also take stern action against companies which mistreat their workers regardless of whether they were locals or foreigners.

Social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said foreign workers must sit down with their employers to settle industrial disputes amicably instead of going on strike or resorting to violence.

“I’m against all forms of exploitation by employers and also violent acts by workers as this will not solve problems,” he said.

Lee advised employees to complain to the Labour Department if they felt that they were being mistreated by their employers.