KUALA LUMPUR: The government will hold engagement sessions with all stakeholders in the industry before implementing the multi-tier levy mechanism this year, says Human Resources Minister Steven Sim (pic).
He said the engagement sessions will bring industry players and regulatory agencies together.
"The various industry portfolios are closely linked to the ministry and government policies. Of course, we will hold engagement sessions with all relevant stakeholders.
"I seek the support from all parties including the industry, as this initiative will not only help restructure our labour market but also enhance the competitiveness of the industry and the country's economy," he said during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Negara on Monday (March 10).
He was responding to a question from Senator Tan Sri Datuk Low Kian Chuan, who asked whether the levy mechanism would be implemented this year and if the ministry had engaged with industry stakeholders.
The government had previously announced that the mechanism would be introduced as part of the 12th Malaysia Plan initiative to reduce dependence on foreign workers to below 15% of the workforce.
In a related development, Sim clarified that the government is maintaining its decision to freeze quota applications to hire foreign workers, which has been in place since March 18, 2023.
"This is to support the policy of capping foreign employment at no more than 15% of the total workforce by 2025," he said, adding that it is in line with the principle of prioritising hiring locals before offering the vacancies to foreign workers. - Bernama
