PETALING JAYA: Malaysian Employers' Federation (MEF) was only aware of the requirements for foreign workers to undergo medical examinations every year and the increase in examination rates through FOMEMA's website and its social media. FOMEMA’s decision on this matter was made unilaterally and there was no prior discussion and consultation with stakeholders on this matter.
MEF President, Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain Syed Husman P.J.N., J.P. states that “MEF has already voiced its concerns on the matter through a media statement dated 17th January 2024. Despite MEF complaints and concerns regarding the above matter, FOMEMA sees it fit to proceed with the decision to implement the changes on the medical examinations of foreign workers to be on yearly basis and increase the fee rates with effect from 1st February 2024. The decision of FOMEMA to proceed with the implementation of changes without first discussing the matter with the stakeholder is undemocratic.”
Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain states further that “Even after MEF requested for consultation and dialogue to be held regarding the implementation of changes, FOMEMA still implemented this matter without any consultation with the stakeholders. Such an approach is not in line with the concept of Malaysia Madani philosophy.”
“MEF is concerned that FOMEMA failed to take into account the difficulties and hardships faced by employers as a result of the changes. FOMEMA refused and failed to take into account the views of MEF that represents the views of private sector employers.
FOMEMA had never held any dialogue with the stakeholders to at least explain and take into account the employer's views on related matters. The attitude and actions of FOMEMA failed to give due respect to the industries and businesses. MEF calls for consultation and dialogue between FOMEMA / authorities and the stakeholders to find ways to resolve related issues to arrive at win-win solutions.”
MEF states that what FOMEMA’s actions in unilaterally deciding and implementing changes on the frequency of medical examinations of foreign workers and the increase in fees charged without any discussion failed to adhere to democratic ways of doing business.
In the light of above MEF requests that the implementation of the yearly medical examinations of foreign workers and the increase in rates of payment with effect from 1st February 2024 be suspended until appropriate consultation and dialogue is held with the stakeholders to find a win-win solution.
For further information, please contact the MEF Secretariat at 03-7498 7200 or email
mef-hq@mef.org.my.
1 February 2024