Malaysia is one of Asia's biggest employers of foreign labour. But recently, cases of deaths, abuse and forced labour have come to light. What is going on? Who is protecting these migrant workers?
“The Opposition were involved in protests in June this year and were using
the MTUC for their vested interests,” he said when winding-up debate on
the Trade Unions (Amendment) Bill 2007.
<p>He said the protest was over the RM900 minimum wage and a Cola allowance of
RM300.</p>
<p>He said the Government was not deaf to requests for a minimum wage but that
it was impractical to set a minimum for all industries.</p>
<p>“We have set a minimum wage for some industries since 1983 including for
port workers and store helpers.</p>
<p>“Right now, we are studying proposals to set a minimum wage for clinic
assistants and security guards.</p>
<p>“So there is no need to be worried or doubtful that the Government does
not care about these workers,” he said.</p>
<p>Abdul Rahman said a RM1,200 minimum wage could not be set for domestic helpers
as it would burden those who do not earn much.</p>
<p>Kota Baru MP Datuk Zaid Ibrahim suggested that the matter on the minimum wage
for maids be studied further since there was opposition from countries like
Indonesia.</p>
<p>Abdul Rahman said MTUC would lose if it pulled out of the tripartite negotiations
with the ministry and employers.</p>
<p>The Bill was passed.</p>
<p><i>Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2007/8/30/parliament/18733999&sec=parliament</i>
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