- Learning from the experiences of other countries, to keep the Covid-19 transmissions under control in Malaysia, our national containment efforts must include protecting all vulnerable populations in the country. This must include extending protection for foreign workers. The emergence of clusters amongst foreign workers in Malaysia should serve as a red flag, calling for early intervention, or otherwise risk another wave of infections as seen in other countries. - Taking care of foreign workers in Malaysia is not only humane, it is sensible. Firstly, because foreign workers are important to Malaysia’s economy; secondly, neglecting foreign workers’ welfare in a time of pandemic incurs significant public health and economic externalities to the country. Amongst others, it strains our public healthcare system, increases the risk of a prolonged lockdown and unplugs the economy’s access to a large swathe of the workforce. - To bolster the country against further impact from the pandemic, we must facilitate testing, treatment and isolation for foreign workers, step up job protection and strengthen regional cooperation and coordination with our neighbouring countries.
