Malaysia Home Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin has said that his country needs foreign workers, but having valid documentation.
He said his main concern is the safety and security of country’s citizens and ensuring that those who live in Malaysia follow its laws, rules and regulations.
"In order to develop the country, especially in the heavy-lifting jobs, Malaysia needs migrant workers," said the home minister.
He made the remarks while talking to media on Monday morning after witnessing Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) receive two new patrol boats, aimed to develop the International Coast Guard's role to safeguard Malaysia's coast.
Asked about Al Jazeera’s recently aired documentary on the discrimination and violation of human rights against undocumented migrant workers, he said the authority is doing what its citizens wants – being strict against those who break the law.
AM/ALM/LY