Page 54 - BPAReport

5.3.4 Policy recommendations contained in the online process for PLKS Workers

Sectoral dependency ratio quota system

27. The online application and automatic approval will be based on the agreed sectoral
dependency ratio (DR) quota system for PLKS workers embedded in the multi-tier levy
system. The approval process will also determine the applicable multi-tier levy to be imposed
for the applicable cohort of PLKS workers.

Single employer and sector policy

28. The approval process will continue to apply the policy which prescribes that the
PLKS worker can only be employed in the specified business entity and sector for which
approval has been granted. (Each PLKS worker will have a unique ID for this policy to be
enforced). MOHR in coordination with other concerned ministries and agencies will develop
a mechanism to permit a variation to this policy based on defined circumstances, e.g. worker
abuse.

Policy of no limitation on work functions of PLKS worker in line with qualifications

29. The Independent Committee proposes adoption of a new policy with no limitations on
the work functions of the foreign worker within the assortment of occupational positions
aligned to normal qualifications, skills and experience levels as reflected in the salary scale of
the firm. PLKS workers should be allowed to work in all segments of operations of a
legitimate employer e.g. front and back office, where unforeseen pressure points in business
operations may occasionally arise, etc. However, the occupational position that a PLKS
worker is assigned to occupy permanently must meet the qualification, salary and work
experience level of a similar employee within the firm or the industry at large. Accordingly,
the employer must provide evidence of training provided to all Malaysian and foreign
workers to function within the business, including in- house SOPs and training manuals
where appropriate.

PLKS workers only in approved sectors and subsector

30. The current policy for allowing PLKS workers in selected sectors should be largely
maintained for Peninsular Malaysia, Sarawak and Sabah. Any future considerations for
adding or removing sectors will be managed by MOHR on the basis of strict criteria and
based on consultations with all relevant stakeholders.

Lift restrictions on frozen subsector

31. The current policy to permit the hiring of PLKS workers in certain services subsector
shall be immediately restored. A hiring freeze of FWs had been imposed on these subsectors
in the past several years. MOHR will develop a mechanism based on strict criteria for adding

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