Malaysia a haven for illegal workers?

While we commend the Government for taking proactive action in stemming out international militant and terrorist groups from using Malaysia as a hub for radical activities, Indian Nationals held under the ISA ! it nevertheless brings to mind several disconcerting questions regarding our official policy towards foreigners working in the country, whether legally or illegally.

In the news report, the three foreigners arrested under our Security laws were a restaurant operator, a music teacher and a construction contractor respectively. It is amazing to read that foreign nationals find it so easy to either operate a business or to take up a profession here, not being citizens of the country? In most of the other countries in the Asia Pacific region, it is even difficult for foreigners to open bank accounts unless they have approval from the Government authorities to operate a business, or have a work permit. Most small and medium size businesses must be operated through the local citizenry, and all such businesses must have at least majority local control. Professionals like engineers and music teachers require a work permit, no less. And engineering and contracting businesses require that the business must have locally recognised engineers appointed in management positions. In addition, in the Philippines, for example, non citizens and non residents cannot be involved in ANY retail business.

Reading further this news report against the backdrop of the present Amnesty program of the Government, it will look like the Government is in actual fact 'legalising' all such illegal businesses and employment in the country, otherwise why is there a need for amnesty? Where will our own citizens stand against this onslaught?

To me, it is no surprise at all why Malaysia seems to attract foreigners like ants to honey. Once inside the country, they seem to ba able to do anything with impunity. Until they are caught, that is.