Refugees should not be confined to 3D jobs, says NGO

KUALA LUMPUR: The government's proposal to allow registered refugees to work in Malaysia's dirty, dangerous and difficult (3D) sectors is a welcome step, but they should not be restricted to such jobs.

North South Initiative executive director Adrian Pereira said refugees should have the freedom to choose employment based on their skills, qualifications, capabilities and preferences, rather than being confined to low-skilled or demanding work.

"We welcome it, but it shouldn't be limited to 3D sectors. We cannot assume all refugees are low-skilled," he said.

Pereira said the right to work should be guided by International Labour Organisation principles, including workers' right to choose their employment without being forced to take jobs they do not want or are not suited for.

He said any refugee employment programme must be properly organised and planned, with clear government policies and implementation guidelines.

"Workers must also receive at least the minimum wage and adequate insurance protection, in line with applicable labour standards.

"Expanding employment opportunities for refugees should go beyond filling vacancies in sectors facing labour shortages. They should also be treated fairly and allowed to use their skills and qualifications.

"The right to work must include the right to choose," he said.

Malaysian Employers Federation senior adviser for government, media and international engagement Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said allowing refugees who have passed security screening to work could help address labour shortages.

However, priority must remain on local workers, followed by efforts to improve productivity and adopt technology before alternative labour sources were considered.

Earlier, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail told the Dewan Rakyat that the government may allow registered refugees to fill labour shortages in the 3D sectors to reduce Malaysia's dependence on foreign workers.

He said the proposal could be considered based on UNHCR data on about 225,000 people with refugee status.