LETTER | Having a migrant workforce usually contributes to the economic growth of a nation. However, the matter needs to be managed carefully with strong cooperation between the government and private sector, especially with regard to the influx of illegal migrant workers.

Transparency International Malaysia notes the Immigration department efforts in the recent aggressive crackdown on illegal migrant workers.

We feel that there should also be strict enforcement on employers who are hiring illegal workers as well as those who facilitate the import of illegal foreign workers. Action needs to be taken without fear or favour against any employers who are found to have violated the law to ensure the rule of law is adhered to. Failure to take immediate action against illegal immigrant workers may cause social problems or even a threat to national security. National security is non-negotiable!

The government should also consider incentivising private sector engagement to understand the recruitment challenges faced by Malaysian businesses, and possibly introduce standards for responsible recruitment and employment practices to employers so as to benefit from the migrant labour.

Needless to say, there should be a holistic approach to the issue and the stakeholders must seek a long-term, balanced solution as this impacts the country.

The author is president of Transparency International Malaysia.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.