Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Mohd Khairuddin Aman Razali said the shortage of manpower in the two sectors was critical, and it was feared that it could affect the performance and progress of the country’s agriculture industry.

“At the same time, the safety of Malaysians cannot be compromised. Hence, the ministry is of the view that the ban on the entry of foreign workers is the best approach, taking into account the current situation.

“Furthermore, in a situation where many Malaysians are losing their jobs, it is appropriate to limit the hiring of foreign workers,” he said in a statement today.

Khairuddin said the ministry would redouble its efforts to fill the labour shortage in the plantation and commodity sectors by holding a campaign to attract more Malaysians, including the indigenous people, to work in the sectors.

“The ministry will continue to move towards giving priority to locals working in the plantation and commodity sectors, as well as empowering human capital through training and courses under the Institute of Malaysian Plantation and Commodities,” he said.

“The ministry also welcomes the involvement of local employment agencies in encouraging locals to work in these sectors. It is important that efforts to reduce dependence on foreign workers can be realised,” he said.

Khairuddin said the government is also considering issuing temporary permits to illegal foreign workers in the country to address the critical situation in the oil palm and rubber sectors as it is still difficult to attract Malaysians.