We have the law, it’s enforcement that’s wanting

IT comes as no surprise that Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department director Comm Datuk Hazani Ghazali has suggested for undocumented foreigners who repeatedly enter our country to be whipped.

It is a wake-up call for the authorities to get tough with employers who do not adhere to procedures when hiring foreign workers irrespective of the industry.

The proposal to cane undocumented migrants should also include employers who are convicted of hiring these people. Those who are convicted of leasing their premises to undocumented foreigners should also face the full brunt of the law.

The Immigration Act (Act 155) was amended in 2002 to make immigration violations such as illegal entry subject to caning. It states that anyone who illegally enters the country can face a fine of RM10,000, a jail term of as long as five years as well as six strokes of the cane.

If I remember correctly, a couple of years ago, a few foreign workers were convicted of illegal entry, and were jailed and caned. But I have yet to read or hear of any employer who was found guilty of hiring illegal workers receiving a similar punishment.

Even increasing the fine on employers of illegal workers under the Employment Restriction Act is not the solution. Enforcement of the law is the key.

The problem has been allowed to balloon over the years due to lax enforcement. It is further compounded by some irresponsible employers who are still hiring undocumented foreigners but are not getting valid work permits for them.

There has been a lot of talk by some employers that locals do not want to do certain jobs. Why point the finger at the locals?

It is no secret that employers prefer to hire foreigners as they are paid lower salaries. Pay the locals a decent wage and I am sure they would be interested to work.

I hate to say this, but if Singapore is able to implement and enforce its laws on undocumented migrants, why can’t we?

WILLIAM DENNIS

Subang Jaya