KUALA LUMPUR, October 23 – The Malaysian government is considering a review of its migrant labour quota as the number of foreign workers approaches the 15 per cent cap set under the 12th Malaysia Plan. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that as of September 15, the proportion of foreign workers was nearing this limit, prompting officials to reassess the potential for reopening migrant labour hiring.
Despite the review, the suspension of new migrant labour applications remains in effect, with no plans to reintroduce the Labour Recalibration Programme, which concluded in 2023. The Ministry of Home Affairs continues to closely monitor the foreign worker numbers to ensure compliance with the set ceiling.
