KUALA LUMPUR — Former Klang MP Charles Santiago has slammed MCA president Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong’s criticism of proposed mandatory Employee Provident Fund (EPF) contributions for migrant workers, suggesting that Wee’s stance reflects a disregard for fair treatment of foreign labour.
Wee recently voiced strong objections to the EPF contribution mandate announced in Budget 2025, arguing that compulsory contributions by foreign workers could lead to higher labour costs, potentially escalating inflation.
He also noted that Singapore had eliminated foreign worker accounts within its Central Provident Fund (CPF), suggesting Malaysia should follow suit.
In a statement, Santiago emphasised that the EPF scheme provides essential social protection for Malaysia’s nearly 3 million migrant workers, arguing that mandatory contributions would foster a fairer labour market in line with global standards.
Santiago criticised Wee, suggesting his opposition reveals an unwillingness to afford migrant workers equal benefits with local employees.
He highlighted that many Malaysians working overseas benefit from fair social protections, and urged Wee to consider that foreign workers in Malaysia similarly deserve social security and equitable treatment.
“He (Wee) alleges that, unlike Singapore, we want to focus on the welfare of people who have come to do back-breaking jobs so their families back home can afford decent meals, healthcare and education.
“Is this an archaic thought pattern or is Wee simply trying to revive his political career by making a populist statement?,” Santiago asked.
Known for his advocacy on migrant labour issues, Santiago cited the 2007 ASEAN Declaration on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Workers, which obliges member countries to strengthen protections for foreign labourers. He also mentioned the 2022 ASEAN Declaration on Portability of Social Security Benefits, intended to allow migrants to transfer social security entitlements within the region.
While Malaysia has yet to ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (ICRMW), Santiago highlighted that the Employment Act 1955 extends equal labour protections to both migrant and Malaysian workers. However, he acknowledged more could be done to safeguard migrant rights.
Santiago argued that enabling EPF contributions from migrant workers aligns with Malaysia’s commitment to human rights standards, particularly as it vies for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council.
He concluded by urging Wee to carefully consider the impact of his statements on Malaysia’s image regarding social protection and human rights.
“So, Wee needs to think carefully before making statements that undermine social protection for migrants.
“He must be told that pitting migrant workers against Malaysians to score quick brownie points for political longevity is vile,” he added. – October 30, 2024
