Malay Indian business body protests high foreign labour levy

Kuala Lumpur, May 22 (ANI): The Malaysian Indian Business Association has opposed the government's plan to impose a heavier levy on foreign workers, as they feel it will negatively affect the country's economy.

Malaysia is highly dependent on skilled foreign labour.

"If such decisions are rushed, the country's economy will be affected because many industries depend on foreign workers. Most locals are not up to doing hard labour or do not possess the skills to perform the jobs that foreign workers do," The Star quoted K. Sivakumar, the President of the association, as saying.

He also called the move "untimely" and suggested the opening of more night schools to train local workers.

Other organisations too have voiced their reservations about the move, arguing that the extra cost will have to be borne by the end consumer. (ANI)