In a statement, the ministry said the government always sought to ensure that locals were not denied their right to work in sectors where the employment of foreigners is allowed.

This comes after the home ministry clarified yesterday that Nepalis are the only foreigners allowed to work as guards for registered security companies in the country, following news reports that Malaysia is turning to Pakistan for such manpower.

“Only positions which are not filled by locals in approved sectors are allowed to be opened to foreign workers, especially less-skilled jobs, including foreign security guards,” the ministry said.

The intake of foreign workers in Malaysia involves both the human resources ministry and the home ministry.

“We urge employers who are employing security guards and security companies which supply guards to offer attractive salary packages beyond the required provisions under labour laws.

“We also urge employers to provide extra incentives so that workers remain in the job for a long time.”

Such incentives, it said, included transport, accommodation, sufficient uniforms, food, loans, equipment, annual bonuses and career opportunities.

The ministry welcomed associations for former police and military personnel to encourage their members who are in good health to work as security guards.

It added the ministry was always ready to find jobs for those registered with Jobs Malaysia.