It also plans to implement a levy system to discourage employment of low-skilled foreign workers.
This is contained in the fourth pillar “Empowering Human Capital”, under the third strategy of the 11th Malaysia Plan Mid-term Review 2016-2020 tabled in the Dewan Rakyat today.
In the manufacturing sector, the government will continue to encourage the implementation of the Industrialised Building System (IBS) to reduce low-skilled foreign workers.
“A gradual and progressive levy system, based on the number of foreign workers employed, will be implemented to reduce and regulate the number of foreign workers more stringently,” the report stated.
The government will amend the Employment Act 1955 to make it mandatory for employers to bank in the salaries of their foreign workers.
“This will enable better management, prevent exploitation as well as monitor the remittance of money by foreign workers,” the report said.
Other amendments under the Act include increasing the number of maternity leave days from 60 to 90 days, in support of mothers working in the private sector.
“Meanwhile, regulations on childcare facilities will be reviewed to make it easier for employers to provide childcare centres in the work place or in nearby areas,” it said.
Aside from that, beginning January next year, all government agencies must provide childcare facilities.
Through the 11th Malaysia Plan, efforts to achieve at least 30% women’s participation in the board of directors of government-owned companies, statutory bodies and public-listed companies will be continued.
Also, under the same pillar, more schools will be encouraged to implement the Dual Language Programme (DLP).
“This is through the teaching of Mathematics and Science in English.
“The DLP provides the option to parents to decide on the language of their choice for their children’s education,” the report said.