Proposal to Allow Foreign Spouses to Work in Malaysia: A Step Towards Economic Diversification
Home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail recently suggested that the government may reconsider its policy on foreign spouses working in Malaysia. In a written parliamentary reply, he stated that foreign spouses who have a long-term social visit pass are allowed to work or operate businesses if they meet specific requirements.
Current Policy
Currently, foreign spouses with a long-term social visit pass are permitted to work or operate businesses without the need for an employment visa. However, this approval is not automatic and is subject to specific requirements being met. In 2023, a total of 161,531 long-term social visit passes were issued to foreign spouses.
Potential Benefits
Allowing foreign spouses to work in Malaysia could have numerous benefits for the country. Firstly, it could help to reduce the reliance on foreign workers, which would alleviate pressure on the social and economic systems. Additionally, it could also lead to an increase in local economic activity, as foreign spouses would be able to contribute their skills and talents to the workforce.
Challenges and Concerns
However, there are also challenges and concerns that need to be addressed. One of the main issues is the current restrictions on the types of jobs that foreign spouses can take up, which could limit their potential to contribute to the economy. Additionally, the short-term visa length of three years can cause confusion among prospective employers and prevent highly qualified spouses from fully utilising their skills.
Deportation Policy
Separately, Saifuddin also addressed concerns about the ministry’s policies on deportations. He stated that the ministry follows international principles, including the principle of non-refoulement, which prevents sending people back to countries where they would face persecution, torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, or punishment and other irreparable harm. He also noted that the ministry continues to work with foreign embassies to prepare travel documents for detainees and expedite repatriation.
Conclusion
Allowing foreign spouses to work in Malaysia could be a step towards economic diversification and reducing reliance on foreign workers. However, there are also challenges and concerns that need to be addressed, including the current restrictions on job types and short-term visa length. Further discussion and consideration are necessary to determine the feasibility of this proposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current policy on foreign spouses working in Malaysia?
A: Currently, foreign spouses with a long-term social visit pass are permitted to work or operate businesses without the need for an employment visa.
Q: What are the specific requirements that foreign spouses must meet to work in Malaysia?
A: The specific requirements are not stated in the article, but it is likely that applicants must meet certain criteria related to their qualifications, employment history, and other relevant factors.
Q: Why is the government considering changing its policy on foreign spouses working in Malaysia?
A: The government is considering changing its policy to help meet economic demands and reduce reliance on foreign workers.