Foreign workers staying in Slums!

This morning, after my usual morning walk at the Bukit Kiara Park and Arboretum, (part of Taman Tun Dr. Ismail), I chanced on a sight that maybe is portentous of the deterioration of the quality of our living areas in the years to come. At the edge of this Park, I have been noticing a large area hidden by a high zinc fence, and accessible only though a closed gate. As I passed by, a Bas Kilang blocked my way, waiting for the gate to open. When the gates opened, I saw what was inside, and was horror struck. There were rows and rows of those 20-foot Containers that have been converted into living quarters. I could not see more, as I have to drive on again, as the bus drove inside the fenced area, but these questions came to my mind:

• Is this the way employers of large numbers of contract foreign workers are housing their migrant staff?
• Have the amenities been properly constructed with adequate water and sanitation facilities? For example, have the sewage maintenance of the area been properly taken care of?
• Even though the whole area is hidden from public view, do the residents around the location know of the area being used as a "hostel" for migrant workers?

If my observations are correct, then I think we as Malaysians have a lot of thinking to do, and ponder if our massive dependence on foreign workers and maids are having a serious deleterious effect on the environment and the social fabric of our nation. In trying to keep wages and costs of employing migrant workers down to a minimum, to maximize profits, are we not in turn, creating large pockets of slums and sleazy residential areas in the country. Are we also ensuring that these contract migrant workers, on completion of their projects actually return to their native countries? The ever increasing number of illegals plying their businesses in all parts of the city is testament to the view that most of them stay back. These slums created to house them just encourage them to do so, what more if they have started families here already. At last 'count', almost 3 million foreigners are in Malaysia, working in construction, security, restaurants and homes, and doing illegal businesses.

Foreign workers staying in Slums!